Clowning Around! (1997)

Clowning Around! is a magazine story.

Plot
Whilst puffing through the countryside, Thomas spots two clowns practising their act outside the big circus tent. Thomas thinks its one of the funniest things he's ever seen and thinks he'd make a good clown. The next day, Thomas sets out on his new career. At the busy quarry, he sees a perfect opportunity. As workmen are filling his trucks, he pulls away sending gravel everywhere!

Later, Thomas spots Percy about to take on water. Thomas creeps up behind and nudges Percy, who gets covered in water! Percy was furious! Later, Thomas spots Toby dozing. He decides to startle him with a loud whistle. Unfortunately for Thomas, Toby wasn't the only one to jump, a workman falls off his seat and onto an important lever. Sand pours down, half-burying Thomas! Toby and the workmen laughed at Thomas' comeuppance. The Fat Controller tells Thomas to leave the entertaining to the clowns and Thomas agrees, although he couldn't help but chuckle when he thought about poor Percy!

Characters

 * Thomas
 * Percy
 * Toby
 * Sir Topham Hatt