THE Easter holidays brings a special guest to Severn Valley Railway, as the enduring appeal of Thomas the Tank Engine saw hundreds of visitors arrive.

Immediately on our entry to the Kidderminster station we were given a Thomas book, 'Hide and Peep' and a certificate, we were then greeted by Sir Topham Hatt, the Fat Controller, and 'the little blue engine'.

A busy timetable ensured that we weren't left waiting for our train, one of Thomas' friends, a diesel or a steam to take us up the line.

Our ticket allowed us to travel freely along the railway from Kidderminster through Bewdley to Highley, home of The Imagination Station. This Engine House provided us as adults with history and an insight to the railway and had plenty to keep our son amused, with face painting, a colouring competition, Thomas temporary tattoos, an adventure play area and Ronnie Crackers Magic Show. All included in the ticket.

We sat on the other side of the train on our journey back to view the beautiful setting, passing plenty of waving walkers and the safari park.

We were not limited to just the Thomas themed attractions as all stations to Bridgnorth were open.

On arrival back to Kidderminster we were treated to 'The Day Thomas Got Boilerache' a live action show with Sir Topham Hatt, Thomas and Diesel. Where Thomas and Diesel steamed up the line to shunt some trucks.

A good family day out and a must for any Thomas fan.

Day Out with Thomas is on 14/15th April and booking in advance saves some money.

Visit www.svr.co.uk for details.

Review by Paul Jackson and family.