UNLIKE most four-year-old boys who dream of being super-heroes or football stars William Horrocks would like to be a bin man when he grows up.

The Atherton youngster is ‘obsessed’ with bins and idolises the council crew who collect his family’s rubbish according to his aunt, Chris Lewis.

So as a special surprise treat for his birthday she contacted the council and organised for the youngster to have a trip around the waste depot and a ride in one of their bin lorries.

William, his dad Peter and granddad Jack were shown around the site by the crew who collect their bins each week.

Chris said: “He had an absolutely wonderful time. The crew were so kind to him. They even gave him a high-visibility jacket and a pair of gloves.

“He slept in the jacket for the first three nights after his trip and only took the gloves off when he had a bath.

“It sounds funny but he is obsessed with bins and the bin crews. It started about two years ago.

“Bin day is the highlight of the week. William knows exactly what day and what time the crew come. He makes us all stand outside and wave to them.

“We’ve been doing it so long now the lads recognise William and wave back.”

William, who starts at Chowbent Primary School this September, was given a guided tour of the depot in Ince and he got to ride in the bin lorry.

Chris said: “I just knew he would love to see the depot so thought it would be a lovely treat for his birthday.

“Everyone was so nice to him. I can’t thank the council enough. He’s been telling everyone he’s been to see his friends at the depot.”