A star of the hit TV drama The A Word has thrown his support behind plans to create a specialist school in Cumbria for children with autism.

Actor Christopher Eccleston has warmly welcomed news that plans for the Cumbria Academy for Autism are being developed.

Mr Eccleston was among the cast and crew of the BBC 1 show who were on location in the Lake District in June as the filming for season two came to an end.

The acclaimed drama's new series returns to our screens tonight.

Set in the Lake District, The A Word tells the story of Joe and his family.

Now two years on, this second series explores the continuing challenges Joe and his family face.

Mr Eccleston, who plays Joe's grandfather Maurice Scott in the show, said of the new school plans: "Hopefully it will raise awareness that there are special challenges in raising children with special needs. We're very supportive of news like this."

The former Dr Who actor was speaking as he joined cast and crew on location near Keswick in June as they filmed the finishing touches to the drama's second series.

Bridge End Farm at Thirlmere was transformed into a scene of a summer fete and fictional fell race.

Members of local running clubs were invited to be extras during the production.

Last week Cumbria hosted a special preview screening of the first episode at the Brewery Arts Centre in Kendal.

The series also stars Lee Ingleby, Morven Christie, Greg McHugh, Vinette Robinson and Molly Wright.

The new six-parter has been penned once again by BAFTA-winning Peter Bowker.

The first series regularly attracted more than four million viewers.

* The A Word is on BBC 1 tonight at 9pm.