Christmas last year was just another day for toddler Ben Collins, locked in his own lonely world of autism.

He did not realise that the day was special and took no notice of family celebrations.

But this year, Ben, who has just turned four, knows what Christmas is about as he keeps telling his mother "presents", "Santa" and "tree".

Ben's improvement follows a massive fundraising campaign by parents Sandi and Paul, of New Marske, east Cleveland, to take their son to America for a special treatment programme.

The couple returned from their latest trip in October and the changes in Ben are beyond all their dreams.

Sandi said: "It was brilliant, really good. We came back and, within a week, Ben was potty trained. Before we went he did not have a clue. I am really pleased about that.

"Last Christmas, Ben never opened a present, he never even noticed Christmas. It was just a normal day for him and he did his own thing. This year, when I asked him what he wanted for Christmas, he replied 'a blue engine'. I was crying, as he ripped his presents open."

Ben's latest speech tests show he has the ability of a two to three-year-old. Ten months ago, his speech sounds were equivalent to that of a six-month-old baby.

Sandi says she plans to educate Ben at home until he is six years old and then re-assess the situation.

In the meantime, the American programme will be keeping an eyes on his progress through a series feedback discussions by telephone and video, before the family make their final trip to the United States next summer.

However, the family needs to raise £9,000 to complete the programme over the next two years and are already planning a series of fundraising activities in the New Year.

Sandi said: "Even if Ben never gets any better than this as he is now, it has all been wonderful."

Anyone who would like to help Ben can call (01642) 514576.