Minor Human Characters in the Magazine Stories

This page is for minor human characters that only appear in the magazine stories.

The Golfers

This article is about 'the characters'. You may be looking for 'the magazine story'.

“I'm terribly sorry. I did not mean to hit the golf ball towards the railway at all. I'm not very good at golf yet, you see. I often hit my golf balls into bunkers full of sand but never before have I hit one into a bunker full of coal!”

―The golfer

The Golfers often practice golf in a field along Thomas' Branch Line. One of the golfers is not very good and once hit a golf ball into Thomas' coal bunker. The golfers went to the station where he asked if Thomas' Crew had seen their missing golf ball. The Fat Controller returned the man's golf ball, but not before telling him off for hitting the ball at Thomas. The golfer apologised and the Fat Controller talked to him about golf for quite some time and offered to have a game with him one day.

Appearances

• 1988 - The Golfers (only one speaks)

The Shepherd

The Shepherd once had a sheep that strayed onto Thomas' line. Some time before this event, he had left his crook on the train and it is returned to him by the guard.

Appearances

• 1992 - Lost and Found!

Bert Coke

Bert Coke is a coal merchant who has a stall at a large market in a town along Thomas' Branch Line. When Thomas ran out of coal after making a delivery to the market, his driver and fireman purchased six bags of coal from Bert. He has his own lorry which is red.

Appearances

• 1993 - Food for Thomas (does not speak)

The Bride and Groom

The Bride and Groom got married at a church in 1993. Their wedding car broke down after getting the bride to the church, so the bride, groom and their guests travelled to their reception in Wellsworth with Thomas.

Appearances

• 1993 - The Wedding Engine! (do not speak)

The Special Stationmaster

This article is about 'the stationmaster'. You may be looking for 'the magazine story'.

The Special Stationmaster with the Fat Controller

The Special Stationmaster was a stationmaster that is popular with the Fat Controller's engines. He earned his nickname, the Special Stationmaster, because he keeps calm and cheerful in times of trouble. His best friends are the engines and he always has a kind word to say about all of them. He retired in 1993 and the Fat Controller arranged for him to live in a house in Wellsworth. Unfortunately, this was not good enough for the stationmaster as he would miss seeing his friends everyday. The Fat Controller later arranged for an old, disused coach to be converted into a house for him. The coach was then placed in a field near his station.

Appearances

• 1993 - The Special Stationmaster!

The Café Owner

The Café Owner is a retired engine driver who opened up a café next to the seaside. One day, the café burnt down and the owner was very upset. Thomas had an idea though and soon the Fat Controller sent an old coach which has been taken out of service, to be refitted. Thomas then took it to a seaside siding where it was transformed into a popular new café.

Appearances

• 1993 - The Carriage Café

The Very Important People

The Very Important People had come to the Island to open a new station on Thomas' Branch Line. Thomas was given the job of collecting them which made James very jealous.

The group consists of a mayor and a man that looks very similar to the Fat Controller, amongst others.

Appearances

• 1994 - The New Station (do not speak)

The Chimney-Sweep

“Has he come to sweep our funnels?”

―Henry

The Chimney-Sweep sweeps out chimneys for a living. He gets around on a green bicycle which his equipment is tied to. He once caused alarm amongst the engines when they thought he had come to sweep out their funnels. They were wrong and the sweep is employed by the Fat Controller to sweep out the waiting-room chimneys at stations along Thomas' branch line.

Appearances

• 1994 - Puffing Pots! (does not speak)

The Painter and Decorator

The Painter and Decorator once painted the Fat Controller's office at the main station. Whilst they were doing this, the Fat Controller used Daisy as an office.

Appearances

• 1995 - A Desk for Daisy!

Bobo the Clown

Bobo is a clown who has appeared in a few Play and Learn magazine stories.

Appearances

• 2007 - Ding-a-Ling! (actually Kuffy; does not speak)

The Coalman

The Coalman delivers coal to places all over the Sodor, including the theatre at Wellsworth. He once helped Thomas by giving him some coal when the tank engine was running low. Thomas later returned the favour when the coalman's lorry broke down.

Appearances

• 1997 - Carrying Coal!

The Famous Film Star

This article is about 'the Film Star from a 1997 magazine story'. You may be looking for 'the Film Star from a 2011 magazine story'.

“What a sweet little engine he is!”

―The Famous Film Star talking about Thomas

The Famous Film Star flew into the airfield one day to visit the Island of Sodor. James was given the special job of collecting her, but her silk scarf blew away and landed on a rooftop where no-one could reach it. Then, Thomas pulled up with trucks of building supplies including a ladder. His driver was able to retrieve the scarf using the ladder and returned it to the film star. The film star wished to thank the engine who came up with the idea. She walked over to Thomas and called him a sweet, little engine and had her photograph taken with him. The next day, the photograph was in the newspaper.

Appearances

• 1997 - Star Story!

The Barleycorn Farm Shepherd

“Red sky at night, shepherd's delight!”

―The Barleycorn Farm Shepherd

The Barleycorn Farm Shepherd is a good friend of Thomas'. Once, he told Thomas the rhyme: "Red sky at night, shepherd's delight" and how it used to predict the following day's weather. Thomas is very impressed by this little rhyme and repeated it all day. The following evening, Percy told Thomas that the red sky tonight was due to a barn fire at the farm. Thomas rushed to help, but it was too late. The shepherd was not worried, however, as he had been planning on replacing the barn anyway so the fire has saved him a lot of hard work. He then reminded Thomas of the old rhyme and it has once again come true.

The shepherd is never referred by name in the story and he is also seen with a sheepdog that is never mentioned.

Appearances

• 1997 - Red Sky at Night!

Miss Brown

“Now, come on, form a crocodile!”

―Miss Brown to her class of children

Miss Brown is a school teacher. Once, she had trouble getting her class of playful children onto Skarloey's train. She told the children to "form a crocodile" which is a method used to get children into an orderly line. Skarloey is then able to take the children and Miss Brown back to the main station. The Fat Controller then asked about the delay and Skarloey says it was down to some crocodile trouble.

Appearances

• 1997 - Silly Skarloey!

The Ice-Cream Man

“It's a disaster, we've run out of fuel and all the ice-cream is going to melt!”

―The Ice-Cream Man

The Ice-Cream Man drives around Sodor in his ice-cream van selling ice-cream and ice-lollies to children. Once, they ran out of diesel fuel and the ice-cream would melt. Luckily, Daisy and her driver always carry a spare can of fuel in case of an emergency and kindly handed it over to the van. Both the van and his driver were very grateful and carry on selling ice-cream to the happy children.

Appearances

• 1997 - The Ice Cream Van

The Black-bearded Man

The Black-bearded Man was a rather scruffy-looking passenger who was waiting on a platform whilst Farmer Collett and the stationmaster where judging a scarecrow competition. Henry mistook him for one of the scarecrows, which the man took as a compliment as the scarecrows were fairly smartly dressed. He went on to help judge the competition and finally pick a winner.

Appearances

• 1998 - The Scarecrow Competition!

Nurse O'Neill

Nurse O'Neill is a nurse at Sodor Hospital. On the day of the nurses' fancy dress party, she fell over at Wellsworth station and sprained her wrist. This gave Gordon an idea and he suggested that she go to the party as a wounded soldier. So she borrowed her father's army uniform and that's what she did.

Appearances

• 1998 - Fancy Dress!

Mr. O'Neill

Mr. O'Neill is the father of Nurse O'Neill. He once lent his old army uniform to his daughter for a fancy dress party.

Appearances

• 1998 - Fancy Dress!

The End of the Rainbow Owner

This smartly-dressed man owns a shop called "The End of the Rainbow". He once arranged with the Fat Controller to have some wagons repainted in bright colours with his shop name on the sides. Then, he asked for James to do the stock run from the shop pulling the wagons. With bright red James at the front, the train looked like a rainbow which was good publicity for his shop.

Appearances

• 2000 - The End of the Rainbow!

The Balloon Seller

The Balloon Seller was selling balloons close to a station on a windy day. The balloons blew all over the railway and the engines turned catching them again into a game. All of his balloons have funny faces painted on them. The balloon seller wears a yellow waistcoat with a white shirt underneath, a red bowtie, a bowler hat and brown trousers.

Appearances

• 2001 - A Burst Balloon! (does not speak)

The Art Thief

The Art Thief stole a very valuable old painting from the art gallery. He hid from police inside a truck in Percy's train. Percy told the police where he was and he was quickly arrested and the painting was returned to the gallery.

Appearances

• 2001 - Percy's Picture (does not speak)

The Art Gallery Manager

“Help! Police! We've been robbed! One of our paintings has gone!”

―The Art Gallery Manager

The Art Gallery Manager runs the art gallery which is located near a railway station. A very expensive picture was once stolen and the gallery manager called for the police. The thief was arrested and the picture was returned.

Appearances

• 2001 - Percy's Picture

Sophie

“There's Sophie on Playful!”

―Percy

Sophie is a young girl and a friend of Percy's. She owns a pony called Playful which she rides in a field close to the railway line. Sophie competed in horse shows and once gave Percy some old horseshoes to bring him good luck.

Appearances

• 2001 - Playful Pony

Stephen

This article is about 'the Small Boy'. You may be looking for 'Sir Topham Hatt's grandson or the steam engine'.

Stephen is a young boy who travels to school on Bertie. Bertie has stated that Stephen is his favourite passenger.

Appearances

• 2002 - Birthday Bus

Stephen's Mother

Stephen's mother arranged a party for Stephen at the local village hall, but the party ended up being held on their good friend Bertie when the hall was flooded. In the puzzle that made up the story, she looks a lot older than she does in the illustration.

Appearances

• 2002 - Birthday Bus

The Elderly Lady

“Thank you, young man!”

―The elderly lady to Thomas' driver

The Elderly Lady was a passenger on Thomas' train that runs from the Main Station to the Shopping Centre. At the Shopping Centre, she dropped her shopping on the platform and Thomas' driver had to help her pick it up. When the Fat Controller arrived, he reprimanded Thomas for being late, but the elderly lady interrupted him, saying how kind Thomas' driver had been. She owns a poodle.

Appearances

• 2002 - Time Trouble!

Paul Walford

“I'm here to take some photographs for a brochure. Paul Walford's the name!”

―Mr. Walford

Paul Walford is a professional photographer. He was employed to help promote Dingley Hall, but the Horrid Lorries kept ruining his shots. The problem was resolved when the hall manager set up a no entry sign to stop the lorries.

His name could come from the fictional setting of the BBC soap, "EastEnders".

Appearances

• 2002 - In the Picture

Dingley Hall's Manager

Dingley Hall's Manager runs the refined Hotel, Dingley Hall.

Appearances

• 2002 - In the Picture

The two Smartly-dressed Women

The two Smartly-dressed Women were passengers on Henry's train. They like to visit factories to find out how different things are made. One day, they spilt some "Sodor Dew" in one of Henry's carriages causing a curious scent. They appear to be quite posh and elegant.

Appearances

• 2002 - What's That Smell?

Danny

This article is about 'the little boy'. You may be looking for 'the pop star'.

Danny is in charge of hiring deckchairs to holidaymakers on the beach, but one day, Lorry 1 crushed his store-shed. Danny was worried that the tide might wash his chairs away, so his good friend, Bulstrode, told him to stow the deckchairs safely in his hull overnight. The next morning, Danny mended his store-shed and gave a gift for Bulstrode - a roll of stripy deckchair material to cover his hull so that Bulstrode did not get continuously hit with beach balls and kites.

He is very kind and in the event of a deckchair being torn, he never seems annoyed. He just takes the damaged chairs home and mends them with stripy deckchair canvas that he keeps for just such an occasion.

Appearances

• 2002 - Take Cover!

Danny Day

This article is about 'the pop star'. You may be looking for 'the little boy'.

Danny Day is famous pop star who arrived on Sodor via ferry for the "Sodor Goes Pop" concert. He disguised himself as a fireman to avoid any attention from the crowds and James secretly took him to the festival site.

Appearances

• 2002 - Sodor Goes Pop! (does not speak)

The Sherbets

The Sherbets are a famous band. Harold gave them a private ride to the airfield, where Thomas was waiting to deliver them a special pop concert called "Sodor Goes Pop".

Appearances

• 2002 - Sodor Goes Pop! (do not speak)

Restless Eric

This article is about 'the DJ'. You may be looking for 'the mountain engine'.

Restless Eric is a famous DJ from Radio Sodor. He was the host of the pop concert "Sodor Goes Pop" which included acts such as Danny Day and the Sherbets.

Appearances

• 2002 - Sodor Goes Pop!

Sam the Shepherd

“Those sheep will feel cooler and more comfortable in this warm weather once they're clipped.”

―Sam the Shepherd

Sam the Shepherd works on a farm with his trusty collie dog, Beth, nestled in the hills of Thomas' Branch Line. One day, Thomas took some sheep-shearers to the farm along with the Fat Controller and his grandson, Stephen Hatt. One sheep broke loose, but was soon quickly rounded up again by Beth.

Appearances

• 2002 - Time for a Trim

Roddy Bowlby

“I've been all around the world in all kinds of weather, except snow that is...”

―Roddy Bowlby

Roddy Bowlby is a well-known and much loved adventurer from Brendam Bay. He sailed around the world single-handedly in his trusty yacht, the Sea Farer.

When the Fat Controller heard of Roddy's voyage coming to an end in the newspaper, he scheduled more trains to greet Roddy at Brendam Bay and arranged for Thomas to deliver a present to the adventurer. Roddy returned home to a very warm welcome and was presented with the present that Thomas delivered which turned out to be a big globe with Roddy's trip mapped out on it.

Appearances

• 2002 - A Snowy Reception

The Nurse

“Good work. You'd be a great help in a real accident!”

―The Nurse praising the railway staff

The Nurse works at St. Mary's Hospital and sometimes gives courses on first aid to the railway staff at the Main Station. She usually travels from the hospital to the station on Bertie.

Appearances

• 2003 - Feeling Fine

Fred the Fogman

Fred the Fogman is a fogman on the narrow gauge railway. He once saved Peter Sam from running into a tree.

Appearances

• 2003 - Seeing Smoke

The Milkman

“Sorry to hold you up, Thomas, but my milkfloat doesn't go very fast.”

―The Milkman

The Milkman drives around Sodor delivering milk and other groceries such as bread and eggs in his milk float. His milk float once broke down, but luckily Caroline was happy to help the milkman complete his rounds.

Appearances

• 2003 - Milk and Motors!

The Sculptor

The Sculptor is a well-respected and versatile sculptor. She hosts sculpture shows at her shop somewhere along the Skarloey Railway. One winter, she carved a fish in a frozen waterfall, which everyone loved.

Appearances

• 2005 - Ice Carving (does not speak)

The Mine Inspector

The Mine Inspector is an inspector, who Peter Sam was afraid of. When Peter Sam decided to rest near a mine he heard noises and thought it was a ghost. The Inspector came out of the mine and Peter Sam was relieved that it was not a ghost.

Appearance

• 2005 - Mine Mystery

Alf

This article is about 'the former snack bar manager'. You may be looking for 'the Talyllyn Railway diesel engine, the cleaner, the excavator or the Story Library book'.

“They'd rather miss my train than Alf's snacks!”

―James

Alf ran the snack bar at the Main Station for many years until he retired in 2005. Upon his retirement, no suitable replacements could be found, hence the snack bar closed. Later on, Nelly was hired to run it. Alf's food was said to be so delicious that James had to blow his whistle to remind the passengers to catch their train. He used to joke that the passengers would rather miss their train than Alf's food!

Appearance

• 2005 - What's Cooking? (does not speak)

Nelly

“Coffee and home-made cakes for everyone!”

―Nelly

Nelly is a retired school dinner-lady and the current manager of the snack bar at the Main Station. When Alf retired, the Fat Controller could not find a suitable replacement and the snack bar was closed. Days later, James came across a broken rail and whilst he and his crew waited for it to be repaired, Nelly gave them coffee and home-made cakes that she had made in her nearby cottage. After James told the Fat Controller about her, she was immediately hired to run the snack bar.

Appearance

• 2005 - What's Cooking?

Tigerwoman and The Fang

“Holy hatstands, Thomas, haven't you heard about the Elsbridge Carnival?”

―Tigerwoman and The Fang

Tigerwoman and The Fang are superheroes. Two people disguised as Tigerwoman and The Fang attended the Elsbridge Carnival.

Appearance

• 2003 - Super Heroes!

Webman

“I'm taking Webman!”

―Annie

Webman is a famous superhero. A man dressed as Webman was to attend the Elsbridge Carnival. He was due to arrive on board Harold who had been disguised to resemble Webman's own helicopter. However, Harold was called out to assist in catching a jewel thief. Webman went along with him and lent his web to the police officers who were able to get the thief tangled in it. He did not make it to the carnival, but appeared on the front page of Sodor News the next morning. He is based on Marvel Comics' Spider-Man, though his costume is more similar to Captain America's.

Appearances

• 2003 - Super Heroes!

Farmer Collett's Wife

Farmer Collett's Wife and her husband live at Collett's Farm with their many animals. When Farmer Collett went missing, his wife helped a rescue team and their dog to track him down.

Appearances

• 2003 - Animals (does not speak)

The Canoeist

“Help!”

―the Canoeist

The Canoeist took part in a river race. On the day prior to the race, the canoeist dropped his paddle in the water while practising and had to be rescued by James. On the day of the race, he managed to save the Mayor's hat when it was dropped into the river. Despite this, the canoeist still managed to take first place and was presented with a silver cup.

Appearances

• 2004 - The River Race

The Jewel Thief

The Jewel Thief stole a bag of jewels and a van to escape in. The van ran out of petrol in the middle of the field and the thief made his way towards some woods on foot. Before he could reach the woods, two policemen dropped a web on him from Harold. The web had been supplied by Webman who had been on his way to a carnival at Elsbridge. The jewel thief, now tangled in the web, surrendered. The following morning, the jewel thief, the arresting officers, Harold and Webman all appeared on the front page of the Sodor News newspaper.

Appearances

• 2003 - Super Heroes! (does not speak)

Dan

“A real engine is the best!”

―Dan

Dan is Duck's driver's son. One year, on his birthday, Dan came to the station and his father gave him a model engine as a gift. Dan went round and showed everyone his new toy, but Thomas startled him by banging into the buffers too hard. This caused Dan to drop his special toy, breaking it. Thomas felt bad and invited him into his cab as his special birthday guest.

Appearances

• 2004 - Birthday Engine

The Bank Robbers

“You're all under arrest!”

―a policeman

The Bank Robbers robbed Wellsworth Bank and hid from the police in an old abandoned cottage on the Skarloey Railway with their stolen loot. Peter Sam was alerted to their presence after he saw a strange light come on in the abandoned cottage. Peter Sam then alerted the police who later raided the cottage. One thief tried to make a run for it with the money, but Peter Sam blew his whistle and startled him. The runaway thief tripped over and was quickly apprehended.

Appearances

• 2004 - Proud Puffer (do not speak)

The Magician and the Witch

The Magician and the Witch are employees at (or may even own) the Magic Shop on Edward's Branch Line. They dressed up as a wizard and a witch to attract a crowd of customers to their shop.

Appearances

• 2005 - Strange Sight

Adam and Debbie

Adam and Debbie are the young children of a stationmaster who works on a station on Thomas' Branch Line. One winters day, Adam and Debbie went shopping with their mum to purchase a toboggan. Unfortunately, all the toy shops had sold out. When Thomas had an accident, it gave their dad an idea and he makes a toboggan in the shape of Thomas!

Appearances

• 2005 - Slide and Ride

The Soldiers

The Soldiers were going to Gordon's Hill with Thomas to embark on a training exercise about coping in cold weather. However, a blizzard caused them to take shelter in Annie and Clarabel. The group of soldiers consisted of an officer and his men.

Appearances

• 2005 - Really Useful Coaches

Ted

“This hat's just like a funnel!”

―Ted

Ted is a porter at a station on the North Western Railway. When off-duty, he performs at children's parties as a clown. He is very popular around the town. Once, he performed at a railway staff party where his special hat got run over by Arthur. The Fat Controller then gave Ted one of his old top-hats as a replacement. With the Fat Controller's help, Ted managed to turn the hat into a steam engine's funnel, complete with smoke pouring out of it.

Appearances

• 2005 - Clowning Around

The Small Boy

“Can I be the Fat Controller and run the big Main Station, for just a little while!”

―The small boy

The Small Boy wanted to run the Main Station. The Fat Controller allowed him to and he was given an old whistle, a top-hat and a timetable. The Small Boy soon gave the Fat Controller his railway back when Murdoch broke down and blocked the line.

Appearances

• 2006 - Taking Charge

Sam

This article is about 'the porter'. You may be looking for 'the engine or the farmer'.

“Great rusty rails!”

―Sam, Sleepy Sam, 2007

Sam is a porter at one of the stations on Sodor. He is well known for falling asleep whilst on his train home. This is because he finds the carriages so warm and comfortable. Percy is always sure to blow his whistle to wake Sam up when they reach his station. Once, when he visited the Sodor Railway Museum, he fell asleep in one of their carriages.

Sam has a wife, a young son and a young daughter.

Appearances

• 2007 - Sleepy Sam

The Ice Artist

The Ice Artist sculpts statues from ice. He works in a public park where Thomas often visits - and accidentally melted the sculptures! S/he is never referred to by gender so it is unconfirmed whether he or she is male or female, but it can be assumed he is male.

He/she is not to be confused with the sculptor from a 2005 magazine story.

Appearances

• 2008 - The Ice Train!

The Vet

This article is about 'the magazine character'. You may be looking for 'the television series character'.

The Vet yearly attends the Sodor Horse Show to care for the horses. He also helped to deliver a baby foal on Sunnyhill Farm. He drives a car similar to Sir Topham Hatt's with the word "VET" on the sides.

Appearances

• 2009 - New Delivery

The Mill Manager

The Mill Manager owns an old windmill. The windmill was undergoing repairs for quite some time and as a sail was lifted into position, it was damaged two days before its grand reopening. The manager is very upset, but Thomas has an idea. They cover the sails in pretty spring flowers to hide the damage on the windmill until further repairs to the sail can be completed. The opening was a great success and the windmill now produces lots of flour and is a grand tourist attraction.

Appearances

• 2009 - Spring Time Special

Forest Ranger

The Forest Ranger identified a family of badgers in Henry's Forest.

Appearances

• 2010 - Trees and Tunnels

The Car Ferry Captain

“All aboard for Caroline's Cruise!”

―The car ferry captain

The Car Ferry Captain captains the ferry that transports cars from Sodor to the Mainland. He once agreed to take Caroline for a trip so that she could have a view of Sodor from the sea.

Appearances

• 2006 - Caroline's Cruise

The Famous Writer

The Famous Writer is an author. On the day, she was due to sign copies of her latest book at a book shop in Wellsworth, the shop's basement caught fire. Luckily, Daisy arrived and she was able to sign her books inside of the Diesel railcar. As a thank you, she gave Daisy her own book with the inscription: "Dear Daisy, for being a Really Useful railcar".

Very little is known about her as she was not seen in any illustrations.

Appearances

• 2003 - Books Aboard!

The Fried Fish Man

“I haven't enough chips!”

―The Fried Fish Man

The Fried Fish Man sells fish and chips from his van at various locations around Sodor. One day, he told Terence's driver that business has been slow that day. While Terence's driver bought some fish and chips, Terence's brakes slipped and he collided with a tree, sending potatoes from his cart tumbling onto the railway line. Edward's train was delayed as a result and his waiting passengers, smelling the fish and chips, all bought their supper from the fried fish man. It was not long before the fried fish man was completely sold out.

Appearances

• 2004 - Frying Tonight

The Injured Mountain Climber

“Thank you, Harold. I don't know what I'd have done without you."
"It's all in a day's work.”

―The Injured Mountain Climber and Harold

The Injured Mountain Climber hurt his leg whilst climbing a mountain on Sodor. Luckily, he was spotted by Harold who dropped a harness and lifted the man to safety. Harold took the injured man to the airfield where an ambulance was waiting to take him to hospital. Before leaving, the relieved mountain climber did not forget to thank Harold.

Appearances

• 2004 - Harold to the Rescue

Kit's Owner

Kit's Owner lives in a cottage on Edward's Branch Line. She owns Kit, whom she cannot get to come inside the house until he's barked "hello" to Edward. She appears to be quite elderly.

Appearances

• 2008 - Kit's Kennel

S. Jones

S. Jones is a self-employed carpenter. Once, his van broke down on the level crossing and, after pushing it clear, Edward's guard offered him a lift in the brake van. Edward then asks him to build a kennel for his friend, Kit.

Appearances

• 2008 - Kit's Kennel

The Jeweller

“I've never been mistaken for a thief before!”

―The Jeweller

The Jeweller once collected the Fat Controller's watch and his wife's necklace from his office. Edward saw him take them and quickly board Emily's train. Thinking the man had stolen the items, Edward gave chase. Thanks to a signal failure, Edward caught up and his driver and Emily's guard searched for the man. Before being given a chance to explain himself, the Fat Controller arrives and reveals that the man is a jeweller. The man sees the funny side; he's never been mistaken for a thief before.

Appearances

• 2008 - Stop, Thief!

Mr. Savino

“It sounds crazy, Sir Topham, but I'll try anything!”

―Mr. Savino, Steam Roasted

Mr. Savino owns a coffee shop close to the main station. It nearly did not open in time when Cranky accidentally dropped his coffee roasting machine into the sea. Luckily, the problem was solved by Thomas who suggested roasting the coffee beans in Stepney's firebox.

Appearances

• 2004 - Dockers' Dinner
• 2010 - Steam Roasted and Christmas Dinner Diner

Sodor Toy Factory Manager

The Sodor Toy Factory Manager is a man who is in charge of the toy factory on Sodor. He allows schoolchildren to have tours of his factory on school trips. He is also rather generous as he always gives the children a bag of free toys for their school. He was responsible for making the game Edward's Escape, based on Edward's brave attempt to apprehend burglars, which was a huge success.

Appearances

• 2010 - Edward's Escape

Marcus

Marcus is a young boy who is good friends with Sir Topham Hatt's grandchildren Stephen and Bridget. One of the games he enjoys playing with them is "piggy-in-the-middle".

Appearances

• 2010 - Piggy-in-the-middle! (does not speak)

Elsbridge Rovers F.C. Manager

The Elsbridge Rovers F.C. Manager owns the Elsbridge Rovers. He appears to be very supportive of his fans and very generous.

Appearances

• 2010 - Percy's Poles

The Head Keeper

The head keeper is in charge of the Wildlife Park on Sodor. He once had to stop the schoolchildren from entering the park because of an escaped African deer. The deer was recaptured with the aid of Thomas, who was dressed as a tiger at the time.

Appearances

• 2007 - Tiger Thomas

The Skipper

“Ready, steady, pull, Freddie!”

―The skipper to Freddie

The Skipper owns a canal boat, which he uses to take loads of timber to the wharf. When his boat breaks down, he relies on a horse named Biscuit, to tow him to the end of the towpath by the wharf. When the towpath ends, he enlists the aid of a Skarloey Railway engine to tow him the rest of the way. It is unknown if he actually owns Biscuit.

Appearances

• 2011 - Ready Steady Freddie

Sir Rackham

Sir Rackham owns a prize bull.

His name could come from a character in the fictional comic book series "The Adventures of Tintin".

Appearances

• Musical Duncan (mentioned)

The Scrapman

The Scrapman is an employee at one of the Scrapyards on Sodor. Once, Edward was making a delivery to the yard, when a piece of metal jammed in his wheels. The scrapman assumed that Edward was sent for scrapping and started work despite Edward's desperate pleas. Luckily Trevor and Jem Cole arrived and saved Edward from a terrible fate.

Appearances

• 2011 - Saved Again (does not speak)

The Scrapyard Inspector

The Scrapyard Inspector works at one of The Scrapyards. When a large piece of scrap fell out off Rosie's trucks and onto the tracks. The Scrapyard Inspector used his crane magnet to pick it up before Gordon came along.

Appearances

• Mighty Magnet!

The Film Star

This article is about 'the Film Star from a 2011 magazine story'. You may be looking for 'the Film Star from a 1997 magazine story'.

“Would you like my autograph?”

―The Film Star

The Film Star once visited Sodor in her seaplane. Neville, unaware that it was a seaplane, was horrified when it crashed into the sea. When he realised his mistake, Neville was asked to tow the plane to the jetty. The Film Star was very pleased with her smooth ride and, as a sign of gratitude, signed Neville's boiler.

Appearances

• 2011 - Splashdown!

Smiley the Clown

“It's Smiley the Clown! He was in the circus!”

―Stephen and Bridget Hatt

Smiley the Clown is part of a travelling circus which visits, amongst other places, Sodor. When he's not taking part in the circus performances, he is available for private performances such as birthday parties. He once attended Stephen and Bridget's friend, Sally's birthday party.

Appearances

• 2005 - Happy Ending
• 2011 - Clowning Around

Sally

“Hurray! This will be the best birthday party ever!”

―Sally

Sally is a friend of Bridget and Stephen Hatt.

Appearances

• 2005 - Happy Ending
• 2011 - Clowning Around

Joanna

“Joanna's the best baker!”

―The engine crews

Joanna is a baker who owns Joanna's Bakery which is situated opposite Crosby Station. She is very popular amongst the engine crews and station staff who all agree she is the best baker on the island. She once made a big birthday cake for the Crosby stationmaster as a surprise.

Appearances

• 2006 - Cakes at Crosby

The Sodor Railway Jazz Band

The Sodor Jazz Band is a quartet of musicians who are, presumably, employees of the North Western Railway. They perform shows across the island and rehearse in a station waiting room. Bill, Ben and the Diesel are all fans of their music.

Appearances

• 2006 - Sounds Better (do not speak)

The Artist

The Artist is an elderly-looking man who often paints pictures of things at the fishing village, including the ships and holidaymakers. Stephen and Bridget took his photo whilst trying out their new camera. He once painted Arthur when his train was delayed by a points failure.

Appearances

• 2011 - Puffer Portrait

The Acrobats

The Acrobats are part of a travelling circus that once visited Sodor. Their act is popular with everyone - including the engines. Once, whilst sticking up posters at a station, they fetched the guard's scarf down from the station roof after Gordon let off steam. They consist of two men and one woman.

Appearances

• 2011 - Show Time

The Doctor

The Doctor arrived at the main station on Henry's train and was asked by the stationmaster to examine the Fat Controller, who was not feeling well. The doctor told the Fat Controller that he had a chest cough and gave him some medicine. He then examined an ill Henry by listening to his boiler. He concluded that Henry had blocked tubes.

Appearances

• 2011 - Tube Trouble

The Signwriter

Mr. T. Drysdale works as a signwriter on Sodor and is also a talented artist. Thomas asked the signwriter to paint a mural of some passengers to hang on the wall by Annie to cheer her up while she waits for a refit. The signwriter drives a green van with his company's details on the sides.

Appearances

• 2012 - Smiles All Round (does not speak)

The Priest

Gordon with the Priest

The Priest runs the church. When Gordon passes by with the express, the church's bells ring and the priest steps outside and waves to Gordon. The Priest and Gordon are great friends.

Appearances

• 2012 - Sound Around (cameo)

Simon

“My brand new Express Service will go all over Sodor!”

―Simon

Simon runs the company Simon's Express Sandwich Service, which distributes sandwiches all over the island. Once, Gordon incorrectly thought that Simon was going to replace his express and completed his run in record time. In doing so, Gordon broke the dining car's cooker. The Fat Controller then rung Simon to order some sandwiches to feed the hungry passengers. He drives an orange-brown van.

Appearances

• 2012 - Express Delivery!

Mr. Director

“Lights, camera, action!”

―Mr. Director

Mr. Director is a movie director who was making a mystery movie at Cronk station. Thomas delivered a fog machine to the station for Mr. Director to use, but a porter dropped it and smashed it. Thomas had a very good idea and offered to blow steam over the actors which would look just like fog. Mr. Director agreed and was very happy with the result.

Appearances

• 2014 - Mystery Fog!

Jim

This article is about 'the magazine character'. You may be looking for 'the Mid Sodor Railway engine or the other magazine character'.

Jim owns a ride named "Jim's Jungle Ride". It used to be situated at the pier but had to be moved to the Wildlife Park to make way for a bowling alley.

Appearances

• Jim's Jungle Ride!

Joe

“Thanks, Joe! It's lucky that you were watching out for me, too!”

―Thomas

This article is about the night watchman. You may be looking for Culdee's driver.

Joe is a night watchman for a factory close to a branch line. He has a fire at night to keep warm. He once saved Thomas from running into a landslide. The next day, Thomas returned the favour by giving him some hot coals to relight his fire which had been extinguished by the rain. Joe and Thomas are firm friends.

Appearances

• 2013 - Joe's Glow!

Farmer Banks

Farmer Banks is a farmer. Henry delivered a new combine harvester to Banks' farm. But when Farmer Banks had trouble stopping the machine, it crashes onto the line and knocked over a signal. Luckily, Harvey came to the rescue and saves the harvest.

Appearances

• Harvey Saves the Harvest!

Michael the Painter

Michael the Painter was a new painter on the railway. He was relatively new and one of his first jobs was to repaint Donald and Douglas, who tricked him. He was then to paint Bill and Ben. He is eager and keen to please although somewhat gullible.

Appearances

• New Paint

Ben the Shepherd

This article is about 'the human'. You may be looking for 'the steam engine'.

Ben the Shepherd looks after sheep and has a dog named Jess. Ben is a fairly elderly man who once got trapped in a ditch. His dog, Jess, alerted Thomas and his crew who rescued him.

Appearances

• The Round-up

Dave the Busker

This article is about 'the busker'. You may be looking for 'the guard'.

“I'm Dave the Busker and I travel near and far!”

―Dave the Busker, Luggage

Dave the Busker is a busker who carries a guitar and travels around busking.

Appearances

• Luggage

Coco the Clown

Coco the Clown is a clown.

Appearances

• Clowning Around

The White Van Man

This article is about 'the person'. You may be looking for 'the magazine story'.

“My last package and I've loads of time to spare! Now who's this Sir Topham chap?”

―The White Van Man

The White Van Man is a delivery man who drives a white van. He is famous for being reckless and always rushing. He has been to Sodor to make deliveries to George's driver and Sir Topham Hatt. Whilst on the island he almost collided with Bertie and got rather impatient at crossing gates. While delivering a package to Sir Topham, he parked his van in front of the Fat Controller's car and got clamped. He then missed his ferry home. It is assumed he lives on the Mainland.

Appearance

He wears a yellow polo shirt and jeans. He also wears a red baseball cap back to front and trainers.

Appearances

• White Van Man

Inspiration

In the UK, the "White Van Man" is a common phrase used to describe inconsiderate and aggressive drivers of vans, much like the one seen in this story. The term was invented by the BBC radio presenter Sarah Kennedy in 1997.

Jill and Jane

“Bill and Ben aren't the only playful twins!”

―Stephen Hatt

Jill and Jane are mischievous twins and are known for playing tricks. Once, Stephen and Bridget met the twins at the vicar's party at the vicarage orchard. Jill and Jane managed to trick Stephen and Bridget whilst playing hide-and-seek!

Appearances

• 1998 - Look Alike

Charlie

For other uses, see Charlie (disambiguation).

“You're much safer, Daisy. I've never fallen off you!”

―Charlie

Charlie is a young boy who is good friends with Daisy. Everyday, Daisy takes Charlie to school on Thomas' Branch Line. However, during a school holiday, Daisy thought that Charlie was travelling on a modern, new engine named Joey. To Daisy's surprise it turned out that Joey is Charlie's horse.

Appearances

• A Different Ride

Captain Cosmos

Captain Cosmos is the name of a character from a science fiction television program and comic book. A live show was shown at Elsbridge Football Ground, entitled "Captain Cosmos Goes to Mars".

Appearances

• A Rocket for Thomas

William

William is a young boy who is good friends with Sir Topham Hatt's grandchildren Stephen and Bridget. Stephen and Bridget were invited to his birthday party, but unfortunately, a leaky tap in the bathroom delayed William's party. The Fat Controller managed to fix the leaky tap and even told the children about his railway.

A young boy called William, who is Percy's driver's nephew, appears in another magazine story. He loves travelling on different modes of transport and while staying with his uncle on Sodor, gets to travel on a ferry, Trevor and inside Percy's cab. He wanted to ride in a helicopter and Percy made his wish come true, when he pretended to break down and Harold came to the rescue. It is currently unknown if it is the same boy in both stories.

Appearances

• A Friend's Party
• 2004 - The I-Spy Game
• 2014 - William's Wish

The Soloist

“Don't worry. We're all fine."
"But the xylophone isn't!”

―The Sodor Brass Band conductor and the soloist

The Soloist joined the Sodor Brass Band to perform a xylophone solo at an extra-special concert on the platform at Maithwaite Station. Unfortunately, during his journey on Thomas, the xylophone got broken. Luckily, the Brass Band's conductor had an idea when he heard the noise Thomas made when going over some uneven sleeps at Maithwaite. During the concert, when it was time for the xylophone concert, the soloist climbed into Thomas and together they rolled back and forth over the damaged line.

Appearances

• 2014 - The Extra-Special Solo

Jim

This article is about 'the Fish & Chip shop owner'. You may be looking for 'the Mid Sodor Railway engine or the other magazine character'.

Jim is a Fish & Chip shop owner, who is good friends with Sir Topham Hatt. When his car broke down, it was the Fat Controller who came to Jim's rescue.

Appearances

• Frying or Flying

The Mayor of Wellsworth

This article is about 'the Mayor of Wellsworth'. You may be looking for 'the Mayor of Sodor'.

Mavis once had to deliver a statue of The Mayor of Wellsworth, but she did not see what was so special about it. That was until she saved some workmen from a rock fall at the quarry and she was rewarded with her own statue. He also once hosted a dinner at Wellsworth Town Hall for the Fat Controller who admired his ice horse centre-piece.

Appearances

• 2003 - Frozen Engine (does not speak)

He also appeared in the magazine story Special Statue.

Jed Stone

Jed Stone is a farmer. One day, he found out the apples from his orchard had been taken from the trees and eaten. The Fat Controller promised an investigation. Later, Gordon's new horn came handy when he found out that the thief stealing the apples were Jed Stone's horses!

Appearances

• Stolen Apples

Tom

This article is about 'the sailor'. You may be looking for 'the postman'.

Tom is a sailor who works at the boatyard on Duck's Branch Line. Originally, the boatyard was for sale until Tom came up with the idea of turning the boatyard into a "Model Boat Museum". Tom and his men had constructed models of old ships and Tom had the job of selling tickets; A job he enjoyed.

Appearances

• The Boatyard

The Carnival Queen

“Just wait until we see James. A princess may have used his carriage but I'm carrying a Queen!”

―Annie

The Carnival Queen was part of the annual carnival on Sodor. She took a Royal Train Tour around the island with Thomas and Annie who were dressed up to look like a Royal Train. As they travelled around the island, everyone came out to wave at the train as they passed by. Annie thought it was the best day that she can remember and looked forward to boasting to James about it.

Appearances

• 2014 - The Royal Carriage (does not speak)

The Captain

The Captain is a friendly old sailor who is friends with Thomas and sees him when he is working on the seaside line. Thomas' Driver once stepped down and talked to The Captain, who told him about different types of clouds and how they could be used to tell the weather. Thomas later used this information to warn BoCo about an incoming storm.

Appearances

• 1996 - Weather Warning

Mr. Ball and Mrs. Ball

Mr. Ball and Mrs. Ball live and are the owners of Dingley Hall.

One night, Mr. Ball dozed off on James' train and got off at the wrong station. As there are no more trains running, he phoned his wife, who suggests for him to take a walk back home. He enjoyed the stroll so much that by the next day he bought some walking boots from Sodor Trek and Leisure.

Appearances

• Moonlight Stroll! (Mr. Ball does not speak)

Bill and Tim

Bill and Tim are the names of two porters. They appeared in a magazine counting activity and demonstrate the difference between backwards and forwards.

Appearances

• Fun to Learn - June/July 2002

The Temporary Controller

The Temporary Controller came to manage the railway while the Fat Controller was on holiday. He swaps the engines' jobs around. Donald and Douglas take china clay, Bill and Ben pull the express, Gordon takes scrap, Thomas pulls Henrietta and Toby takes Annie and Clarabel.

Appearances

• 1996 - The Wrong Work

Bill the Bell Founder

Bill the Bell Founder is a man who owns a workshop that specializes in making bells. One day, Thomas discovers the school bell is broken, Thomas tells Bill, who makes a new one that is placed on top of the school tower.

Appearances

• 2006- The School Bell

Terry the Main Station ticket officer

Terry, the Main Station ticket officer, loses his glasses one day and gives wrong tickets to all the passengers. An Inspector notices this, and notifies the Fat Controller. Then, Terry and the Station Staff look for his glasses, and they are found in the Lost Property Office. Terry gets them back, and is sure there'll be no more ticket trouble.

Appearances

• 2008 - Ticket Trouble

The Sodor Launderette Manager

The Sodor Launderette Manager is the manager of the Sodor Launderette.

Once, he explained to the engines that the laundry machines were filled with too much soap powder, causing soapy water to fill the drains nearby the railway.

Appearances

• 2008 - Bubbling Boiler
• 2012 - Bubbling Boiler

The Steeplejack

The Steeplejack is a craftsman who scales buildings and chimneys to carry out repairs or maintenance.

When Skarloey broke his funnel, he was worried the steeplejack was going to remove it.

Appearances

• 2008 - Funny Funnel

W. Arkwright

W. Arkwright is the captain of his own yellow canal boat.

Appearances

W. Arkwright appears in a magazine story.

Magazines & Annuals

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