I have always wanted to write something about Thomas turning 100 and what effect that would have on him. Since it would be around his 100th birthday this year, and it is the 70th anniversary of the series, now seemed like the perfect time. I hope you enjoy this latest Railway Series Book!

Ffarquhar Engines

Dear Reader,

During my recent visit to the Island of Sodor, I made a short stop at the sheds on Thomas' branch line, and I was intrigued to find the little blue tank engine grinning broadly as I approached.

"You've spelt our station name wrong!" He informed with great glee. I was forced to chuckle, having recently discovered the mistake with my spelling in some of my recent books myself. I explained to Thomas that it had been noticed and corrected, but he was not satisfied with that.

"I think you should name your next book after the station," he instructed me.

"And I suppose that would mean I'd have to set the book in Ffarquhar as well?" I asked, and Thomas merely winked at me.

I wasn't going to give the cheeky engine the satisfaction of my error leading to him having another starring role, but that was before I learnt about everything that had happened there recently.

So here it is, a love letter and apology to the great town of Ffarquhar and the engines who work there – I promise to spell your name properly from now on!

The Author