IT'S full steam ahead for Thomas The Tank Engine in York this year - despite bureaucrats derailing him elsewhere in our region.

Last week, the North York Moors Railway (NYMR) announced its popular Thomas weekend was being cancelled this year, after being told their Fat Controller had to attend a quality-control course.

Derek Robinson has performed the role for more than 20 years, but the new owners of the rights to Thomas events have laid down stringent new conditions.

But while the NYMR event has hit the buffers, the National Railway Museum (NRM) in York has no such problems, and is preparing for its annual half-term Thomas extravaganza.

At the NRM's Day Out With Thomas event, from February 9 to 24, children can take a ride on Troublesome Trucks behind Diesel; enjoy a steam ride in Annie and Clarabel; and see Thomas stories brought to life by a theatre group.

There will also be interactive games, face-painting and the chance to ride on a miniature railway - because the NRM's Fat Controller has the necessary qualifications.

Jim Lowe, visitor operations manager at the NRM, said: "Children from around the world identify with Thomas and parents love the moral messages in the stories.

"In our February event, Thomas is to remain on static display in the NRM's Engine Shed, while his little green friend, Percy, pulls steam rides as a punishment for his latest scrape, setting off down the track without his driver - showing kids its always wise to listen to their elders."

Teri Ruffley, a general manager at HIT Entertainment, which owns the rights to Thomas events, added: "There are also a lot of traditional values there - such as problem solving and social responsibility for helping each other out - which parents want to keep."

The first Thomas books were published in the mid-1940s, after being penned by the Rev Wilbert Awdry. More than 200 million books and 50 million DVDs have since been sold worldwide, while Thomas television programmes have been broadcast in 150 countries.

The Day Out With Thomas event will take place from 10am to 5pm daily. Although entrance to the NRM is free, charges apply for the event, starting at £6.90 for children; £8.90 for adults; and £25 for families. Under-twos go free. Tickets can be bought at www.ticketweb.co.uk or by phoning 0844 4771 000.


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