Exclusive: Unmade 'Jack and the Pack' story revealed

A story from the Jack and the Pack spinoff series that never made it past the production stage has emerged.

Originally to have been made by On Site with Thomas writer, Will Ing, Friendship Story was an episode that existed during the creative development of the spinoff before being omitted.

Ing's online CV mentions Jack and the Pack by defining his involvement; Two episodes of the new children’s series for Gullane Entertainment, the makers of ‘Thomas the Tank Engine’, 2002.

Roll Along Thomas can reveal a response sent by Ing's agent, Casarotto about what occurred during production.

Will was contracted to write for 2 episodes of 'Jack and the Pack'. The agreements were dated 27th March and 27th May 2002 respectively.

One of the agreements was for an episode called 'Friendship Story' and the other was then untitled, but subsequent correspondence suggests it was 'Whose the Boss'.

The series made between 2002 and 2003, which never made it to viewers until its belated DVD release in 2006's Thomas' Trusty Friends, is now believed to have originally been concieved as a fifteen part season.

Whose the Boss went on to become the existing On Site with Thomas tale whilst alongside the ill-fated Friendship Story, the lost No Dozer is an Island was also divulged to have been another victim aswell.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT 'WILL ING'S WORKS ON HIS ONLINE CV

Thanks to SteamTeam.

Michael Angelis stars in BBC One Good Cop drama trail

Long standing British narrator, Michael Angelis makes a return to television later this year since 2007.

The Liverpool born actor is appearing in the BBC's new and highly publicised drama, Good Cop, originally titled Savage.

The four part series sees Angelis portraying Robert Rocksavage, the father of PC John Paul Rocksavage. The former played by Warren Brown, witnesses and avenges the death of his best friend and partner.

The official BBC YouTube channel has uploaded a trailer to promote the program. Brown in December 2011, tweeted a picture of himself on set with Angelis.

Original British Drama, Good Cop from the BBC transmits on BBC One later this Autumn.

WATCH THE TRAILER TO 'GOOD COP'

VISIT @warrenisbrown's TWITTER AND VIEW HIS TWITPIC

Rev. W. Awdry honoured with plaque at former house

The late Rev. W. Awdry has been honoured with a special plaque at his former residency in Wiltshire, England.

The Railway Series creator and writer lived at Lorne House, located in Corsham, in his growing up period during the 1920s for a space of 8 years.

Now run as a hotel, the current owners are to officially reward him with a dedicated plaque in a special event to be held on August 11th 2012.

One half of the owners, Mike Ralli divulged on an insight into Wilbert's early years; He lived here until the age of 18 and it is where he got the inspiration for the series.

Awdry's surviving family of Veronica Chambers, Hilary Fortnam and current Railway Series writer, Christopher Awdry will attend the celebratory ceremony.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE

Thanks to TurboJ for the alert.

Thomas for Property award at Licensing Awards 2012

Thomas & Friends is up for a single award at the latest Licensing Awards for the year of 2012.

The annual awards show has listed the brand as a contender for the Best Pre-School Licensed Property.

Thomas is up against competition from fellow Hit Entertainment property, Fireman Sam, Peppa Pig, The Gruffalo, Octonauts and The Very Hungry Caterpillar to win the title.

Thomas previously lost out to two awards at the preceding event by present rival, Fireman Sam and the Star Wars franchise.

The Licensing Awards 2012 arrives at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London on September 11th 2012.

FIND OUT MORE INFORMATION ON THE SHOW

Celebration themed US DVD boxset for October release

Three US DVDs are returning to the American market for a lengthly compilation boxset in the Autumn.

In a theme about celebration, Carnival Capers, Thomas' Snowy Surprise and Other Adventures and Thomas' Sodor Celebration star in Celebrate with Thomas.

The compilation which holds episodes from the First, Second, Fifth, Sixth, Eighth and Tenth Series runs at an aggregated 149 minutes on the three discs.

The detailing reads; "Carnival Capers": Join Thomas & Friends(TM) as a carnival comes to the Island of Sodor!

Also, meet new friends, Rocky and Rosie, and follow them as they explore their new surroundings and learn to work as a team with the other engines.

"Snowy Surprise": On Sir Topham Hatt's railway, the winter season is a very special time of year and all the engines work extra hard to make the holidays special. But it's not always easy.

Find out what could happen if the villagers on the Island of Sodor don't get their Yule tree in time for the winter celebration.

See if Percy's snow-covered face tricks James and the rest of the engines into thinking they have seen the very scary Jack Frost. Watch if Duck is able to get to Farmer McColl's lambs in time to save them from being trapped in the snow.

"Sodor Celebration": Let the celebration begin! Ride the rails to exciting adventures with Thomas and his friends in this collection of stories from the number 1 engine!

Hop on board as Thomas learns to navigate a difficult bend on his new route - in spite of a runaway train. Watch Thomas and Percy work hard to achieve their goal of being the cleanest engines, while learning to never give up!

And whether moving a circus or delivering chickens, Thomas finds that sharing the load makes things easier. The celebration continues with more stories, more lessons and more fun from Thomas! All aboard.

Celebrate with Thomas from Lionsgate Entertainment hits US DVD shelves on October 16th 2012.

PRE-ORDER THE 'CELEBRATE WITH THOMAS' DVD BOXSET

Thanks to MrTrainfan1000 for the alert.

'A Very Thomas Christmas' extras recieve confirmation

The extra content due to be included on the first ever Season Sixteen DVD have been confirmed by Walmart.

The US release, A Very Thomas Christmas is the debut home video title to feature episodes from the last Nitrogen Studios made series.

Now confirmed by the above mentioned retailer, only two extras support the disc. A notable exception is Watch with Mr. Perkins!, who is omitted from the release.

A game called, Thomas' Christmas Journey stars alongside three Guess Who? puzzles centering on Thomas the Tank Engine, Emily the Beautiful Engine and Charlie the Fun Engine.

Although The Christmas Express starts the disc off, Walmart's description refers to the story as, Christmas Tree Express. It is not known whether the original was a draft title or merely used for the UK version only.

Episodes Include: "Christmas Tree Express", "Ho Ho Snowman", "Salty's Surprise", and "Emily's Winter Party Special".

A Very Thomas Christmas from Lionsgate Entertainment hits US DVD shelves on October 9th 2012.

PRE-ORDER 'A VERY THOMAS CHRISTMAS' DVD

Thanks to MrTrainfan1000 for the alert.

Lionsgate uploads 'Blue Mountain Mystery' YouTube clip

Lionsgate's official YouTube channel have sensationally uploaded a preview clip from the Blue Mountain Mystery special.

The DVD distribution team published the video on the social networking video site in the lead up to the movie's home video release.

The teaser sees Owen taking hoppers down to the rails below before Paxton strikes a conversation with Skarloey.

Shortly after, Blondin' Bridge begins its decapitation, leading to a worker and Merrick signalling Rheneas to halt before reaching the section.

The two minuter sees Ben Small, Steven Kynman, Keith Wickham and Matt Wilkinson voice Owen and Rheneas, Paxton and Peter Sam, Skarloey and Sir Handel, and Rusty respectively. Michael Brandon narrates the scene.

The unknown worker has been speculated by fans to be Season Five character, Old Bailey who was briefly seen in the feature-length special's trailer.

Blue Mountain Mystery is now showing in Australia at Hoyts cinemas, every weekend at 10:30am till September 16th. The DVD is released on September 19th.
 

Kidtoon Films will host the movie in various cities in the United States of America starting from August 2012. The DVD and Blu-Ray bundle hit stores on September 18th.

The UK premieres the film in Vue cinemas for two days only on September 1st and 2nd 2012. A celebrity blue carpet launch at Vue Leicester Square is to be simulated on the first date. The DVD comes out on September 3rd. 
 

TAKE A SNEAK PEEK AT 'BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY'S LATEST CLIP

'Engines & Escapades' races towards Australian iTunes

2007's Engines & Escapades DVD has been turned into a digital copy by iTunes in Australia.

The Season Eleven release debuted on Apple's TV Shows database earlier this July. The package centers on the six stories set on the narrow gauge railway.

The episode list has been compiled in the order which was composed for The Complete Series 11 DVD, removing the Sodor set episodes for the six part collection.

Cool Truckings, Skarloey Storms Through, Sir Handel Takes Charge, Wash Behind Your Buffers, Duncan Does it All and Ding-a-Ling feature in the digitized product, as the summary details.

Enter the exciting world of the narrow gauge railway and travel high up to the hills of Sodor where the intrepid little narrow gauge engines have many amazing adventures in some exhilarating and epic environments!

The narrow gauge engines include such favourites as the wise Sir Handel, the brash and boisterous Duncan and the mischief-making and fun living duo Rheneas and Skarloey.

Engines & Escapades is now available to buy on iTunes in Australia for $7.99. Episodes can be purchased individually for $1.49.

BUY 'ENGINES & ESCAPADES' ON iTUNES

Thanks to NWR1991 for the alert.

'Thomas Story Time' gift set coming for October release

A compilation set expected to feature the first ten titles in the Thomas Story Time book series is to be published for the Autumn.

Thomas Story Time: 10 Book Gift Box is a carry case edition which holds a selection of the TV Series spinoff books.

With free stickers being added to the collection, none of the library's titles are announced to be included in the box.

While The Tall Friend is teased on the cover art, Fire Engine Flynn and Bubble Trouble are referenced in the description, as it tells.

10 Thomas Story Time titles are brought together for the first time in this stunning box set.

Young Thomas fans will love reading about the time that Thomas caught on fire and Fire Engine Flynn raced to his rescue or the day Thomas got into trouble with some bubbles!

And after enjoying the stories there are stickers to play with too!

Thomas Story Time: 10 Book Gift Box from Egmont hits UK book shelves on October 1st 2012. 

PRE-ORDER 'THOMAS STORY TIME: 10 BOOK GIFT BOX'

Thanks to SteamTeam for the alert.

'Thomas Express' promotes 'Blue Mountain' competition

The Thomas Express magazine series in the UK have promoted a competition in relation to the Blue Mountain Mystery.

The latest issue of 318 is giving the chance for a family of four to win tickets to the VIP celebrity premiere of the film at the Vue Leciester Square cinema.

The start time of the event is billed for an 11:15am occurrence on the premiere day for the movie's arrival in Britain.

The magazine explains this further; Thomas & Friends magazine have a family pass to give away to the Blue Mountain Mystery movie premiere at Vue Cinema Leciester Square!

Walk the blue carpet, meet The Fat Controller, rub shoulders with other Thomas & Friends fans at the exclusive after party, and take home a Blue Mountain Mystery goodie bag. An amazing experience for any Thomas fan!

For a chance to enter, buy Issue 318 of the Thomas Express magazine, now available in retailers, nationwide.

The closing date for the Blue Mountain Mystery competition is August 17th 2012.

Thanks to SteamTeam for the alert.

New Season Sixteen DVD spills 'Christmas Express' plot

The first DVD to carry episodes from the Sixteenth Series has been announced for an October release date.

A Very Thomas Christmas is a brand new DVD by Lionsgate Entertainment to premiere in the US for the Autumn.

Hit Entertainment previously revealed to Roll Along Thomas about the recent episodes' inclusion on future home video titles, especially for Great Britain.

The front cover art presents a newly created promo showing Thomas idling on winter tracks while being surrounded by presents and a snowman.

Announced by DVD.Empire.com, four stories from the 2012 season star on the disc. One of the tales included is the forthcoming, The Christmas Express.

Due for a Christmas transmission on British and Australian television, the episode's summary had never been revealed, till now.

Originally to have come before Don't Bother Victor!, The Christmas Express stars the engines on the narrow gauge railway, now serving as the first of two narrow gauge stories in the most recent series.

A teaser shot that depicted Toby and Rheneas, was published in a recent UK magazine issue. Ho Ho Snowman, Salty's Surprise and Emily's Winter Party Special follow the aforementioned subject on the 48 minute disc.

The definement tells; All aboard for a special holiday delivery filled with friendship, teamwork and fun! Rheneas picks the perfect Christmas tree when he finally stops to smell the evergreen.

Charlie knows how fun snow can be and discovers that teamwork-in-the-snow is the most fun of all. Edward gets Salty just what he asked for - the perfect story to re-tell -- and Emily learns the best way to be Really Useful.

Unwrap the holiday adventures with Thomas and his friends and best wishes for a very Thomas Christmas! 

A Very Thomas Christmas from Lionsgate Entertainment hits US DVD shelves on October 9th 2012.

PRE-ORDER 'A VERY THOMAS CHRISTMAS' DVD

Triplets of pics preview 'Blue Mountain Mystery' movie

Three more stills from the Blue Mountain Mystery feature film have been publicised in the latest issue of the Thomas Express magazine.

The shots that will be witnessed in the Summer/Autumn released movie piece were promoted in the magazine's 318th issue on Wednesday July 25th 2012.

The first picture depicts Merrick in a spot of bother as cables snap infront of him. The second shows Victor, Luke and Rheneas at the entrance of The Steamworks. The latter engine features in his yellow livery form.

Following the duo screenshots is Winston smiling in the countryside with The Fat Controller operating him.

Blue Mountain Mystery is now showing in Australia at Hoyts cinemas, every weekend at 10:30am till September 16th. The DVD is released on September 19th.

Kidtoon Films will host the movie in various cities in the United States of America starting from August 2012. The DVD and Blu-Ray bundle hit stores on September 18th.

The UK premieres the film in Vue cinemas for two days only on September 1st and 2nd 2012. A celebrity blue carpet launch at Vue Leicester Square is to be simulated on the first date. The DVD comes out on September 3rd. 

TAKE A PEEK AT 'BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY'S LATEST PICS

Thanks to SteamTeam for the alert.

'Blue Mountain Mystery' British DVD content confirmed

The content due to appear on the UK version of the Blue Mountain Mystery DVD has been cleared by the bbfc.

The film classification team have revealed that the special runs at the slighty extended time of 1 hour and 1 minute, compared to the 57 minutes attached to the Day of the Diesels movie.

Starting off the disc is the usual title card followed by the film itself. The Keith Wickham narrated, Standard Gauge and Narrow Gauge video begins the playlist for the extras side.

Next comes the return of the Guess Who? puzzles. Coming in at the new time of 2 minutes 6 seconds in duration, four segments are expected to be compiled together for release.

While no Down at the Station interstitial is used, breaking the tradition of its ever present inclusion on the Animated Series discs, the Blue Mountain Mystery and Working Together music videos fill in the void.

The Sam Blewitt sung tracks are to entertain for 2 minutes 6 and 2 minutes 7 seconds respectively. Interestingly, the bbfc's cast credits list new cast members, Michael Legge, Steven Kynman and David Bedella.

Blue Mountain Mystery is now showing in Australia at Hoyts cinemas, every weekend at 10:30am till September 16th. The DVD is released on September 19th.

Kidtoon Films will host the movie in various cities in the United States of America starting from August 2012. The DVD and Blu-Ray bundle hit stores on September 18th.

The UK premieres the film in Vue cinemas for two days only on September 1st and 2nd 2012. A celebrity blue carpet launch at Vue Leicester Square is to be simulated on the first date. The DVD comes out on September 3rd.

Working titles for Brian Trueman episodes uncovered

Original titles for episodes written by Brian Trueman have been revealed on his online CV presentation.

The names which were discovered via his agent, Rochelle Stevens & Co, link into the several stories that Trueman wrote for the Sixth, Seventh and Jack and the Pack Series'.

Considered as one of the very best episodes from the Sixth Season, Percy's Chocolate Crunch recieved the early identity of Puff Puff Pastry. In the story itself, the term pastry is never mentioned.

Serving as the introductory script for Fergus the Traction Engine, Bill, Ben and Fergus initially dropped the then newcomer's name from the title and was formally called, Bill and Ben.

Also taking responsibility to establish a fresh face, Nelson the Ballast Tractor's proper first, Percy Helps Out carried the drafted, Nelson Gets Carried Away.

Another creation, No Dozer is an Island appears to relate to a tale about Byron the Bulldozer. While it is not believed to have become A Happy Day for Percy, it is strongly indicated that the above subject was axed.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT 'BRIAN TRUEMAN'S WORKS ON HIS ONLINE CV

Thanks to SteamTeam for the alert.

Bertram returns in 2012 Wooden Railway model guise

Bertram the Old Warrior has returned to Learning Curve's Wooden Railway franchise as his present form has been unveiled.

The narrow gauge engine was first announced to be part of the 2012 lineup by The Train Cellar during the end of 2011.

The newly designed Bertram keeps most of his outlook as seen on his previous form, expect for a radically simplified face that he now sports.

Bertram made a one-off appearance during the Fifth Season of the television series in the episode, Toby's Discovery.

Wooden Railway Bertram from Learning Curve hits toy shelves worldwide now.

SEE THE NEW 'WOODEN RAILWAY' 'BERTRAM'

Thanks to Skarlouie for the alert.

Toby and Rheneas star in 'The Christmas Express' shot

A newly released image from the forthcoming, The Christmas Express episode has emerged in the United Kingdom.

The picture was included in Issue 645 of the Thomas & Friends magazine, published on Wednesday July 18th 2012.

It depicts the now confirmed to star, Toby, pulling Rheneas on a flatbed by the Sodor Search and Rescue Center.

While Rheneas is in a cheerful state, the No. 7 steam tram, Toby utilizes a worried facial expression.

The break in tradition of a standard gauge engine interacting with a narrow gauge engine in the Hit Entertainment timeline of the show, follows Paxton's already known activity in the Blue Mountain Mystery.

The last to do so apart from Paxton and the usual Thomas, was James in the second feature-length special, The Great Discovery.

The Christmas Express airs on Channel 5 milkshake! in the UK and on ABC2 in Australia in Christmas 2012.

For a full list of the scheduling, visit the Dieselworks Turntable Roundhouse on the right hand sidebar for more details.

TAKE A PEEK AT 'TOBY' WITH 'RHENEAS' IN 'THE CHRISTMAS EXPRESS'

Thanks to SteamTeam for the alert.

'Blue Mountain Mystery' movie DVD dated for Australia

The Australian regional version of the Blue Mountain Mystery DVD has recieved an official release date.

The Down Under public along with New Zealand, are the first to see the film, in Hoyts cinemas from July 21st, where the world premiere will take place in Australia.

Three days after the cinema run concludes on September 16th, the DVD will be available for purchase.

The detailing on the back cover describing the plot uses a transcript of most of the narration heard in the movie's trailer.

The Blue Mountain quarries buzzles with really useful engine and new friends. Even an engine Thomas never seen before. Thomas searches everywhere for the clues. But discovering the truth is harder than he imagined.

With danger around every corner, will Thomas be able to save his new friend or will the mysterious engine be sent away from Sodor forever?

Blue Mountain Mystery marks its world premiere in Australia at Hoyts cinemas on Saturday July 21st 2012 and will screen the film every weekend until September 16th. The DVD is released on September 19th.

Kidtoon Films will host the movie in various cities in the United States of America starting from August 2012. The DVD and Blu-Ray bundle hit stores on September 18th.

The UK premieres the film in Vue cinemas for two days only on September 1st and 2nd 2012. A celebrity blue carpet launch at Vue Leicester Square is to be simulated on the first date. The DVD comes out on September 3rd.

PRE-ORDER 'BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY: THE MOVIE'

Thanks to NWR1991 for the alert.

'Blue Mountain' site's products page teases special more

The Blue Mountain Mystery mini website has been updated once again for a grilling on some of the products released.

In the newly created products tab under the homepage, themed merchandise such as toys and books can be viewed for definement.

At least a few tease moments that are to occur in the one hour episode. A 35 piece jigsaw puzzle depicts an artistic work of Luke, Thomas and Owen on the cover but also sights Harold in the morning sky.

Although not seen in the special's trailer, Harold's befuddled inclusion in the puzzle promises an apparent screen contribution. Join Thomas & Friends Luke, Owen and Harold on this high quality 35 piece cardboard jigsaw puzzle.
 
While sets were awoken in discoveries, explanations on four of them were not passed. The above site however has done the opposite, starting with Hideaway Luke which involves a recently mention dynamite load.

Thomas is surprised to discover an elusive little engine named Luke. Luke isn't just hiding himself, he's also hiding a big secret! Can Thomas solve the mystery behind his newest friend? Luke pulls a dynamite car and cargo car.

Paxton in Trouble meanwhile, ignites a dramatic plot to ensue him; Paxton is hard at work at the Blue Mountain Quarry when trouble arises.

Blondin Bridge is falling down and parts of it fall on Paxton! Paxton pulls Blue Mountain Quarry slate cargo cars.

Contrary to speculation, the Rheneas' New Coat of Paint incident confirms expectations; Rheneas is working hard in the mines at the Blue Mountain Quarry.

After a few too many biffs, bashes, and scrapes, Rheneas is rewarded with a new coat of paint. Rheneas pulls two Blue Mountain Quarry cars.

Lastly and originally showcased at the New York Toy Fair in February 2012 is the steep playset now titled, Thomas' Darin' Drop which is teased to be a key moment in the movie.

Working at the Blue Mountain Quarry is a big adventure for Thomas, and the Risky Rails Bridge Drop takes the daring action to new heights! Thomas carries the boulder up the winding Blue Mountain Quarry track.

Send it down the chute and zooming across the cargo zip-line with help from Merrick the crane. As Thomas chugs back down the track, the bridge collapses!

Will Thomas be able to travel these risky rails safely? It's the tallest TrackMaster set yet! Includes a motorised Thomas engine.

The Blue Mountain Mystery products hit toy shevles worldwide now.

VISIT THE 'BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY' MINISITE ON THE 'THOMAS & FRIENDS' WEBSITE

UK

US

AUSTRALIA

MEGA BLOKS releases 'Blue Mountain' and bundle packs

MEGA BLOKS have released two new sets dedicated to Blue Mountain Mystery and have also brang back existing products.
 
The team behind the playable and constructive merchandise created the playsets to promote the narrow gauge engines' big movie.

In 43 pieces, Blue Mountain Quarry eyes up an eventual simulation of the aforementioned place, where Thomas works with a hopper and a nearby halt.

Blue Mountain Crew shows the first glimpses of the subjected Peter Sam and Rusty models, where they are tasked with monitoring the building of an archway.

Distancing away from the new film, MEGA BLOKS have also reprieved eight of their buildable engine toys to be issued out again in additional packs.

Each of them now come with an added arch bridge, painted in their respective colour schemes. Thomas, Henry, Gordon, James, Percy, Diesel, Rosie and Scruff are the characters selected for the individual bundles.

Blue Mountain Quarry, Blue Mountain Crew and the eight engine bundle packs hit toy shelves worldwide now.

TAKE A FIRST GLANCE AT THE PRODUCTS

BLUE MOUNTAIN QUARRY

BLUE MOUNTAIN CREW

BUILDABLE ENGINES WITH BRIDGES

Thanks to GeebMachine for the alert.

Narrow gauge team in states for 'Blue Mountain' packs

Three narrow gauge engines are to recieve their own sets, coinciding with the release of Blue Mountain Mystery.

Starting with the TrackMaster franchise and for the first time, a first look at the Flashback Victor model has surfaced.

The golden orange origin form of Victor has residue of sea salt and gets to pull a load full of crates.

With the Take-n-Play line, Rheneas is back in his repainted state in Rheneas and the Dynamite. The No. 2 little engine carries a flat truck full of explosives, a detonating switch and also hauls a curved silver van.

Sir Handel at the Quarry centers on the incumbent wise train who is covered in traces of blue quarry dust. Sir Handel's loads include a flatbed full of blue rocks and a rock crusher from the Blue Mountain Quarry.

TAKE A LOOK AT THE NARROW GAUGE ENGINES' 'BLUE MOUNTAIN' PRODUCTS

FLASHBACK VICTOR

RHENEAS AND THE DYNAMITE

SIR HANDEL AT THE QUARRY

Thanks to GeebMachine for the alert.

Lionsgate publishes two 'Blue Mountain Mystery' pics

Lionsgate Publicity have created a product page to promote the Blue Mountain Mystery DVD and Blu-Ray releases.

While high resolution detailing of both the covers can be seen, two promotional stills from the upcoming film have been published.

They both depict Thomas and Luke, one where the two cross paths on standard and narrow gauge tracks and another showing them hard at work.

The duo of images are set at the Blue Mountain Quarry location. The second however contains close glimpses of not only Thomas and Luke's drivers, but also a worker in the background.

Blue Mountain Mystery marks its world premiere in Australia at Hoyts cinemas on Saturday July 21st 2012 and will screen the film every weekend until September 16th.

 

Kidtoon Films will host the movie in various cities in the United States of America starting from August 2012. The DVD and Blu-Ray bundle hit stores on September 18th 2012.

The UK premieres the film in Vue cinemas for two days only on September 1st and 2nd 2012. A celebrity blue carpet launch at Vue Leicester Square is to be simulated on the first date. The DVD comes out on September 3rd.

VISIT 'LIONSGATE PUBLICITY'S 'BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY' PAGE

iTunes Australian service hauls in 'Heave Ho!' program

The Australian iTunes application has reeled in a Season Twelve DVD release to be in its TV Shows section.

Heave Ho!, which was originally released on UK DVD before moving Down Under, stars the first seven stories from the 2008 live action CGI hybrid series.

The description tells; Wrong directions, bumpy lines, trucks coming loose, storytelling and more in these action packed stories.

Come along for the ride and join Thomas and all his friends as they heave their loads and work together to make sure everything gets delivered on time!
 
Thomas and the Billboard, Steady Eddie, Rosie's Funfair Special, Mountain Marvel, Henry Gets it Wrong, Heave Ho Thomas and Toby's Special Surprise feature in the digital purchase.

Heave Ho! is now available to buy on iTunes in Australia for $9.99. Episodes can be purchased individually for $1.49.

BUY 'HEAVE HO!' ON iTUNES

Thanks to NWR1991 for the alert.

Exclusive: Brenner researches Wikia for new episodes

Writer, Andrew Brenner has revealed certain aspects that are aiding his new material for the new Thomas episodes in 2013.

The current head writer for Thomas & Friends Season Seventeen, who succeeded Sharon Miller in the chief creative role, is using a certain source for information.

Roll Along Thomas can confirm that Andrew has used Thomas & Friends Wikia as a backbone of research to help him note down historical accuracy that have occured in previous stories, and to link the old in with the new, as he quotes.

I must say I find the Thomas wiki site extremely useful for having everything so well categorised and searchable.

There is so much Thomas material to keep track of and I am trying to keep things consistent, so it is great to have a way to search past stories or character facts and history

The new seventeenth series of Thomas & Friends premieres on television in 2013.

Thanks to ZEM.

Take-n-Play releases museum engine and insect piece

Fisher Price's Take-n-Play franchise have dispatched two new pieces of themed stock to the public.

The reference to museums is the theme for the duo starting with Devious Diesel. On both sides of the mischevious shunter is a banner draped onto him advertising the Sodor Museum.

Diesel nonetheless keeps a squirmy expression on his face. A Spider Exhibit Car also relates to the aforementioned scenario, caging spiders in a parading truck.

A spinning spiders feature is enabled on the item which can be utilized by pushing the load forwards or pulling backwards.

The building itself was mentioned in the two Ninth Season episodes, Rheneas and the Dinosaur and Toby Feels Left Out.
 
Take-n-Play Sodor Museum Diesel and Spider Exhibit Car are now available in stores worldwide.

SEE THE NEW 'SODOR MUSEUM' ROLLING STOCK

SODOR MUSEUM DIESEL

SPIDER EXHIBIT CAR

Executive producer Angus Wright passes away aged 78

Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends' former executive producer, Angus Wright has died at the age of 78.

Wright, who was one of the people responsible for Thomas' transition into a television programme, passed away in France on June 15th 2012.

Born in Britain, Angus worked in many behind-the-scenes departments for the BBC and ITV before transferring to The Britt Allcroft Company in 1984, which led to Thomas' TV creation.

He embarked on a relationship with show creator, Britt Allcroft, before marrying some time after. They divorced years later. Angus played a vital role during Thomas' first five series by serving as a producer.
 
Before the millenium, Angus moved to France where he became infatuated with the country. He then proceeded to live in his ideal place and served in politics.

FULL COVERAGE

DAILY ECHO

MIDI LIBRE

Thanks to Troublesome Truck for the alert.

Exclusive: Hit talks new UK DVDs and Season Seventeen

Hit Entertainment have revealed plans to be made for future DVD releases in the United Kingdom.

The company who produce Thomas & Friends are to issue four DVDs for the 2012 year. These include previously revealed titles that are yet to hit shops in Britain.

Rumours about Curious Cargo and Merry Winter Wish being in a state of limbo have been played down. Speaking to Roll Along Thomas, Hit have confirmed the following discs to be released in their respective dates.

Here is a list of Thomas & Friends DVD releases that are planned until the end of the year. Please note, this list is subject to changes.

16th July –  Curious Cargo
3rd September – Blue Mountain Mystery
24th September – The Complete Series 1-7 
29th October – Merry Winter Wish

On the subject of remainder series and songs due to be available on home video, Hit had this to say; We can confirm that there are plans to release seasons 15 & 16 on DVD.

There are plans to include the new Thomas & Percy song on to upcoming DVD releases.

Day of the Diesels is currently the only special, and to date, the only Thomas UK feature to be on Blu-Ray. Asked if this would concour to later movies or episodes, the London based producers commented.

We have no plans to release any more Blu-Rays at the moment. These plans are also subject to change.

Talking about the new 2013 series made by clients, Arc Productions and Andrew Brenner, all is not yet divulged on the upcoming twenty part show. Season 17 will be aired in 2013, no other information is confirmed as yet.

Curious Cargo, Blue Mountain Mystery, The Complete Series 1-7 and Merry Winter Wish hit UK DVD shelves on July 16th, September 3rd, 24th and October 29th 2012 respectively.

PRE-ORDER SOME OF THE 2012 DVDS
CURIOUS CARGO
BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY
MERRY WINTER WISH

Four 'Blue Mountain' engines in Wooden Railway pack

Four stars from Blue Mountain Mystery: The Movie have already been implemented into a quad pack from Learning Curve.

The Wooden Railway producers have included narrow gauge engines, Rusty, Skarloey, Rheneas and standard gauge engine, Paxton in a gift set.

Titled, Blue Mountain Quarry Gift Pack, the stock itself promotes the 2012 feature-length special.

The definement comments; Help the Narrow Gauge engine friends shunt rock and haul slate at the Blue Mountain Quarry!

Inspired by the Thomas and Friends movie "Blue Mountain Mystery", this limited edition pack features four of the movie's friends.

Included in this 4-pack is the wise, kind Skarloey and his crew, the diesels, young Paxton and adventurous Rusty, and the tough little engine, Rheneas.

Bringing new fun and friends, this limited 4-pack will make an excellent addition to any Thomas and Friends collection.

Wooden Railway Blue Mountain Quarry Gift Pack from Learning Curve is now available in stores worldwide.

TAKE A PEEK AT THE 'BLUE MOUNTAIN QUARRY GIFT PACK'

Thanks to TheRollingThunder for the alert.

Large Scale Emily model from Bachmann due in Autumn

Bachmann's fourth G Scale Thomas & Friends engine will be on its way for sale in shops later this Autumn.

The Large Scale Emily model is to now come to the UK for a September and October availability.

YouTube reviewer, gardentrains hinted of the US' expectancy for the start of next year. The British release date was found on a product list for Bachmann Europe's Thomas & Friends Large Scale series.

Emily's creation follows Thomas, James and Percy, the three fellow Steam Team engines' modelling existence.

Large Scale Emily from Bachmann hits UK model and hobby shops in September/October 2012 and in the US in the fall of Autumn.

VIEW 'BACHMANN EUROPE'S 'THOMAS & FRIENDS' LISTINGS

Hoyts cinemas opens 'Blue Mountain Mystery' film pages

Hoyts cinemas in Australia and New Zealand have created film and schedule pages for the Blue Mountain Mystery feature film.

The cinema chain Down Under are to screen the special starting from July 21st and 22nd at 10am in Australia, with more showings following at the same times in the weekend up until September 16th.

The pages run a brief synopsis of the one hour story; Discover the mystery of the lost engine and be introduced to the exciting new destination Blue Mountain Quarry!

In this action-packed adventure, Thomas discovers a new engine hiding in the tunnels, and sets off to uncover the truth and get to the bottom of the mystery. 

Along the way he meets four new engines bought to Sodor from faraway lands… Will Thomas piece together the story and convince his new friend there’s no reason to hide?

New Zealand's times and dates are to be in the same vein as the Australian theatre areas and will be published in due course.

Blue Mountain Mystery marks its world premiere in Australia at Hoyts cinemas on Saturday July 21st 2012 and will screen the film until September 16th.

Kidtoon Films will host the movie in various cities in the United States of America starting from August 2012. The DVD and Blu-Ray bundle hit stores on September 18th 2012.

The UK premieres the film in Vue cinemas for two days only on September 1st and 2nd 2012. A celebrity blue carpet launch at Vue Leicester Square is to be simulated on the first date. The DVD comes out on September 3rd.

VISIT 'HOYTS' 'BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY' PAGES

AUSTRALIA

NEW ZEALAND

Thanks to TheRollingThunder for the alert.

1000th Post: Amazon previews 'Blue Mountain' books

amazon.com have sensationally previewed four of the Blue Mountain Mystery books using their Look Inside! tool.

The online retailer decided on the option with the special's Little Golden Book, Secret of the Green Engine, Hide-and-Seek Engines and Risky Rails! titles.

The function has allowed minor plot elements to be witnessed, although most of them have been revealed before from various sources.

These moments of such include Paxton's burial from some rocks and Rheneas' escape from the destructing Blondin' Bridge.

Tommy Stubbs' illustrations for the Little Golden Book and Risky Rails! reflect the animation style of the current TV Series whilst Richard Courtney and Jim Durk's for the remaining two retain original design ideas.

The six Blue Mountain Mystery books hits UK and US book shelves all on July 24th 2012.

PRE-ORDER THE 'BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY' UK LIBRARY

BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY (SHORTENED VERSION)

SECRET OF THE GREEN ENGINE

HIDE-AND-SEEK ENGINES

RISKY RAILS!

THOMAS' GIANT PUZZLE BOOK

 

PRE-ORDER THE 'BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY' US LIBRARY

BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY (SHORTENED VERSION)

BLUE MOUNTAIN MYSTERY (FULL VERSION)

SECRET OF THE GREEN ENGINE

HIDE-AND-SEEK ENGINES

RISKY RAILS!

THOMAS' GIANT PUZZLE BOOK

 

Thanks to TheRollingThunder for the alert.