UK - Thomas the Tank Engine arrives

[John Ashworth]

THOMAS ARRIVES AT THE MANOR

10:30 - 28 February 2008
Nicki Robinson
The Tamworth Herald online

Drayton Manor's new multi-million pound Thomas Land attraction reached a major milestone this week with the arrival of its most important character.

But children's favourite Thomas the Tank Engine needed a little help from his friends to get to the £5million tourist attraction - the only one of its kind in Europe.

"Thomas' arrival is a major milestone in the creation of Thomas Land," said Colin Bryan, managing director of Drayton Manor Theme Park.

"We are very close to completing this attraction, which will provide immense fun and entertainment for the young and young at heart."

'Thomas Land', based on the popular children's TV series Thomas and Friends, has seen the transformation of around 6,000 square metres of the theme park into the island of Sodor.

Once complete it will become only the second attraction of its kind in the world.

Japan's Fujikyu Park became home to the first Thomas Land in 1998 and now welcomes more than 1.7million visitors per year.

Drayton Manor's newest attraction features 12 different rides based on loveable and well-known characters, including Harold the Helicopter, Cranky the Crane, Bertie Bus, as well as the rascals of the railway, the Troublesome Trucks.

The new ride is expected to open on March 15, in time for the Easter holiday.

A special Thomas train ride will take fans of all ages on an enchanting journey around the three-acre attraction, which has been carefully created in partnership with HIT Entertainment, the producers and rights owners of Thomas and Friends.

No detail has been overlooked in the effort to authentically replicate Sodor at Drayton Manor, which will also house an indoor play area, caf?? and a 'huge' gift shop crammed with Thomas and Friends goodies.