Thousands turn out to see Thomas

Around 4,000 people turned out to see Thomas the Tank Engine and the Fat Controller make their first appearance at the Severn Valley Railway this year.

There were live shows at Kidderminster Station featuring Thomas, Duck the Pannier Tank and Sir Topham Hatt.

Around 2,000 people flocked to the station each day over the weekend to soak up the storybook world of the characters made famous by the Rev W Awdry. The 16-mile Kidderminster to Bridgnorth steam heritage line had a Thomas theme, with many of his friends and supporting attractions taking place along stations down the line.

At Kidderminster there was Zeppo the Magic Clown and the tiny engines and carriages of the Coalyard Miniature Railway.

Daisy the diesel railcar was at Bewdley station to give rides, and Grumpy George, the always-frowning steam roller, was scowling in the car park. Arley station had an inflatable magical mystery obstacle course and mobile play centre.

Gordon the Big Engine, proudly showing off his fine new blue and red paintwork, was at Highley, while in the dedicated cinema, Thomas films were constantly rolling. Thomas will also return next weekend for those who did not get chance to catch him first time round. Admission is £15 adults, £13 senior citizens and £7.50 children aged two to 15.