Press Release
18 August 2011

Enjoy a Fun Day Out with Thomas
at the Kent & East Sussex Railway

Families are invited to come along to The Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden on 17 - 18 September and 24 - 25 September 2011 for a fun packed fantastic day out.

Everyone's favourite steam engine Thomas the Tank Engine will be making exclusive appearances at Tenterden station with some of his friends including 'Sir Topham Hatt, The Fat Controller'.

Tickets include a 1 hour train ride to Wittersham Road and back behind one of the Railway's engines, the chance to enjoy "Thomas & Friends" station scenarios as well as a daily fun packed programme of children's events with Uncle Myles and Charlie the Clown. Families can also enjoy skittles, hoopla, face painting, temporary tattoos, colouring activities, etching and crayons, a bouncy castle and roundabout rides.

There will be regular Annie & Clarabel rides at the station behind Thomas, a free sticker for every child and an A5 size Junior Engineer's Certificate which is available from Mrs Kindley. Children also have an opportunity to visit Thomas' footplate with a grown -up to have their photo taken, and can help to fill an engine's boiler with water. There's also a fun sing-along session and a special coal cake presentation for Thomas each day.

Watch Punch & Judy shows at 11:30, 12:50 and 2:10, and enjoy Uncle Myles and Billy the Magic Rabbit's magic show and balloon modelling at 3:30 every day.

Tickets also include a screening of the new DVD entitled, Misty Island Rescue' which will be shown on the big screen TV at Tenterden.

Other delights not to be missed include the "Thomas Model Railway Layout" and "An Imagination Station" with lots of Thomas toys and colouring activities as well as the special "Thomas" souvenir shop, which will be selling gifts to help families remember their special day.

In the Tenterden station refreshment rooms visitors can enjoy a variety of hot and cold meals or something from the delicious take away BBQ.

Ticket prices

Fares include a one hour return train journey as well as all the activities shown above. Adult: £13, Child: 18 months -15 years inclusive £10

Those wishing to make their day extra special can upgrade their ticket to a first class seat for an extra £3 per adult and £2 per child.

Babies under 18 months are free of charge, providing they do not occupy a seat.

Trains depart promptly so visitors are advised to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. On each day the Kent & East Sussex Railway opens at 10am to allow visitors to take full advantage of all the activities on offer.

Book early to avoid disappointment. To book tickets contact the Kent & East Sussex Railway booking office on 01580 765155, weekdays between 9am and 5pm, weekends between 9am and 2pm or online at www.kesr.org.uk