RAILWAY superheroes Diddly Dum and Diddly Dee were the stars of the show at a York museum.

Children at the National Railway Museum caught their first glimpse of new cartoon characters, The Diddlys, at the launch of their first book, A Whale Of A Time.

The brainchild of train enthusiast Kevin McCluskey, The Diddlys is a cartoon adventure series featuring Tootsville station in the sleepy town of Whistlestop.

Heroes Diddly Dum and Diddly Dee come to the rescue of those in need by morphing into spaceships, submarines, speedboats and aeroplanes under the watchful eye of stationmaster, Cheerful Charlie.

The new book was officially launched at the museum. During half-term next week, visitors will be able to meet Cheerful Charlie, who will be on hand to sign the book.

Young fans can also join, free of charge, The Diddlys Rail Club, and learn all about railway safety.

The new Diddlys merchandise will be on sale at the museum's shop.

Updated: 09:42 Saturday, October 25, 2003