Jump to content

Thomas & Friends series 1: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
Not how Wikipedia articles are written
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{short description|Season of television series}}
{{TOCright}}
{{more citations needed|date=July 2012}}
'''[[Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends]]''' is a [[children's television series]] about the engines and other characters working on the railways of the [[Island of Sodor]], and is based on [[The Railway Series]] of books written by [[W.V. Awdry|Rev. W. Awdry]].


{{Infobox television season
This article lists and details episodes from the first season of this series, which was first broadcast in [[1984]]. Most episodes in this season have two titles: the original titles (also known as "UK titles") are unbracketed, while American-adapted titles (also indicated by " - US") are bracketed. Both titles are considered valid, although the original titles are perhaps more correct than the American-adapted titles.
| series_number = 1
| bgcolour = #B30C0C
| image = Thomas&FriendsSeries1.jpg
| image_upright = 1.15
| caption = DVD cover art
| network = [[ITV (TV network)|ITV]] ([[ITV Central|Central]]) (via [[CITV|Children's ITV]])
| first_aired = {{start date|1984|10|09|df=y}}
| last_aired = {{end date|1985|1|8|df=y}}
| episode_list = List of Thomas & Friends episodes
| num_episodes = 26
}}


''[[Thomas & Friends|Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends]]'' is a [[children's television series]] about the engines and other characters working on the railways of the [[Island of Sodor]], and is based on [[The Railway Series]] books written by the [[Reverend W. Awdry]].
Season 1 was originally narrated by [[Ringo Starr]], however he and [[George Carlin]] have since re-narrated the episodes for American audiences.


This article lists and details episodes from the first series of the show, which was originally broadcast in 1984. This series was initially narrated by [[Ringo Starr]] for the United Kingdom audiences, who later re-narrated 25 episodes for the United States. The entire series was narrated by [[George Carlin]] for the US audiences.
{{clear}}


It was produced by [[Clearwater Features]] Ltd. for [[Britt Allcroft]] (Thomas the Tank Engine) Ltd. and [[ITV Central|Central Independent Television]].
==Episodes==


==Production==
===Thomas and Gordon - UK- US)===
All of the stories in Series 1 were originally written by the Rev. W. Awdry, including a one-off story commissioned by the staff, ''Thomas' Christmas Party''. The seven engines introduced in this series became the core of the cast in later episodes, with crew member (and from Series 8–12, director) Steve Asquith terming them the "Magnificent Seven".<ref name=intsa>{{cite web |url=http://www.sodor-island.net/steveasquithinterview.html |url-status=dead |title=Steve Asquith - 25 Years On The Model Unit |author=<!--Not stated--> |website=Sodor Island Fansite |year=2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307220029/http://www.sodor-island.net/steveasquithinterview.html |archive-date=2016-03-07}}</ref> Many settings from the first series would stay with the show for years, even through its 2009 transition to [[Computer-generated imagery|CGI]], such as Knapford Station, Wellsworth, Gordon's Hill, Henry's Tunnel, and Tidmouth Sheds.
Thomas is a blue tank engine who works at the big station on the Island of Sodor, shunting coaches to their proper places. He teases Gordon the big engine, and makes him cross. Thomas then fetches Gordon's coaches. But Gordon the proud engine starts before Thomas can be uncoupled from the back of the train, and Thomas gets pulled along the line at top speed. When Gordon stops, Thomas is uncoupled and put into a siding. Thomas is exhausted, and decides never to be rude to Gordon again.


The pilot for the series, which was never aired on television, was filmed in April 1983. It was an adaptation of "Down the Mine",<ref name="dmtribute">{{cite web|last1=Allcroft|first1=Britt|title=A Tribute to David Mitton|url=http://www.brittallcroftproductions.com/tribute.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120205101305/http://www.brittallcroftproductions.com/tribute.htm|archive-date=2012-02-05|url-status=dead}}</ref> which was remade entirely when the rest of the episodes were shot.<ref name=intsa/>
*Introducing [[Thomas the Tank Engine]] and [[Gordon the Big Engine]]
*Cameos by [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]] (Not yet introduced), [[James the Red Engine|James]] (Not yet introduced) and [[The Fat Controller]] (Not yet introduced).
*[http:/upwiki/wikipedia/en/archive/2/25/20051026133338%21TV_thomas_the_tank_engine_screenshot.jpg Screenshot of the episode]
*First time we hear Gordon's theme, the busy theme and the turntable theme.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Thomas Gets Tricked & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas and Gordon'' video and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*First appearance of the "Green and Cream" Express Coaches.
*At the very last scene when Thomas goes across the bridge, you can see his shadow pointing to where the sun's setting.
*The camera stand by the turntable is a small white thing at the bottom of the screen.
*When Thomas puffs into the siding, the same camera stand is at the left of the screen, when there's a close up of Gordon before the station, he isn't pulling anything.
*When Gordon pulls Thomas on the viaduct, you can see the edge of the set at the top left hand corner.
*First appearance of the Mouthless Truck


Filming lasted 7 months from September 1983 to March 1984. Post production was completed in April, 6 months before its official debut on October 9, 1984.{{ref needed|date=July 2024}}
===Edward and Gordon - UK - US)===
Edward is a little old engine, and has not been out working for a while. The other engines tease him, but then he gets chosen to work again, and he is very happy. He helps Gordon up a hill with a goods train, but doesn't get a 'thank you' from him. However, his driver is very pleased, and gives him a new coat of paint as a reward.


This series, along with [[Thomas & Friends series 2|the one that succeeds it]], was narrated by [[Ringo Starr]]. However in 1989, ''[[Shining Time Station]]'' was created as a way to bring ''Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends'' to American television. Ringo Starr portrayed [[List of Thomas & Friends film characters#Introduced in Thomas and the Magic Railroad|Mr. Conductor]], a tiny magical conductor who told stories of engines on the Island of Sodor. Starr re-narrated twenty five of the episodes in the first series, "Whistles and Sneezes" being the exception. Terms like "trucks" and "guards" were renamed to "freight cars" and "conductors" in the new narration. After Starr left the show, American comedian [[George Carlin]] played Mr. Conductor's cousin and narrated all episodes from the first series to the [[Thomas & Friends series 4|fourth series]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=LaMarche |first1=Lee |title=Why George Carlin Narrated Thomas the Tank Engine in the '90s |url=https://movieweb.com/george-carlin-narrated-thomas-the-tank-engine-90s-explained/ |website=[[MovieWeb]] |access-date=31 July 2024 |date=18 February 2024}}</ref> The first season of ''Shining Time Station'' lists the Thomas stories' original UK titles in the end credits, but were re-titled for later seasons and for home video.
*Introducing [[Edward the Blue Engine]]
*Featuring [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]] and [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Troublesome Trucks|Troublesome Trucks]] (Not yet introduced)
*Cameos by [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[James the Red Engine|James]] (Still not yet introduced) and [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]] (Still not yet introduced).
*First appearance of the Old Coaches.
*This story is ''Edward's Day Out'' and ''Edward and Gordon'' from the Railway Series combined.
*First time we hear Edward's theme.
*Just before the end you can see that Edward is wearing James' sad face.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Thomas Gets Tricked & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas and Gordon'' video and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*Henry is in his new shape in the shed scenes.


==Episodes==
===The Sad Story of Henry - UK - US)===
{{Main|List of Thomas & Friends episodes}}
The green engine named Henry, is afraid of the rain, thinking it will spoil his paint. One day, he runs into a tunnel and refuses to come out. The driver, fireman, passengers and the Fat Controller try everything to get Henry out of the tunnel (including getting Thomas to push him out) but Henry doesn't budge. They eventually give up on Henry, and brick him up in the tunnel. A sad and sorry Henry now wishes he hadn't been afraid of the rain.
{{unreferenced section|date=September 2021}}
<onlyinclude>{{Episode table |background=#B30C0C |overall=6 |series=6 |title=20 |titleT=UK title (top)<hr />US title (bottom) |director=13 |aux2=24 |aux2T=Source |airdate=6 |episodes={{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 1
| EpisodeNumber2 = 1
| Title_1 = Thomas & Gordon
| Title_2 = Thomas Gets Tricked
| DirectedBy = [[David Mitton]]
| Aux2 = ''Thomas the Tank Engine''<br />by [[Wilbert Awdry|Rev. W. Awdry]]
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|10|09|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = A little blue tank engine called Thomas lives and works at a big station on the Island of Sodor. He enjoys teasing the other engines, especially Gordon, the biggest and proudest tender engine of all. When Thomas gets carried away with the teasing, Gordon decides to teach him a lesson.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 2
| EpisodeNumber2 = 2
| Title_1 = Edward & Gordon
| Title_2 = Edward Helps Out
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2_1 = ''The Three Railway Engines''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| Aux2_2 = Based on ''Edward's Day Out'' and the story of the same name (''Edward & Gordon'')
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|10|09|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Edward is a blue mixed-traffic tender engine, who has been in the shed and not out working for quite a while. Edward's driver and fireman feel sorry for him and decide to use him one day. Soon, Edward helps Gordon the next day when the big engine gets stuck on a hill with a goods train.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 3
| EpisodeNumber2 = 3
| Title_1 = The Sad Story of Henry
| Title_2 = Come Out, Henry!
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''The Three Railway Engines''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|10|16|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = A green mixed-traffic tender engine named Henry is afraid of the rain, thinking it will spoil his lovely green paint and red stripes. One day, he hides in a tunnel and refuses to come out. After numerous failed attempts to convince him, Sir Topham Hatt (known as the Fat Controller), the man in charge of all the engines, has no choice but to wall Henry up in the tunnel.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 4
| EpisodeNumber2 = 4
| Title_1 = Edward, Gordon & Henry
| Title_2 = Henry to the Rescue
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''The Three Railway Engines''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|10|16|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Henry has been stuck in the south tunnel for a really long time and regrets being so stubborn. One day, Gordon goes too fast with the express and bursts his safety valve near the north portal of Henry's Tunnel. Edward is the only engine available, but the train is too heavy to push without Henry's help.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 5
| EpisodeNumber2 = 5
| Title_1 = Thomas' Train
| Title_2 = A Big Day for Thomas
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Thomas the Tank Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|10|23|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Thomas is getting bored with shunting and wishes that he would pull coaches instead of merely collecting them. One day, when Henry is ill, his chance comes, but he accidentally starts off before being coupled up to the train.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 6
| EpisodeNumber2 = 6
| Title_1 = Thomas & the Trucks
| Title_2 = Trouble for Thomas
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Thomas the Tank Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|10|23|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Thomas is tired of pushing coaches and wants to see the world. One night, Edward tells him that if he can take his goods train, he will push coaches in the yard. Thomas gets his chance, is too excited to pay attention to Edward's advice. At the top of Gordon's hill, Thomas puts on his brakes. But the Troublesome Trucks proceed to push him to the bottom, where he stops at a siding. The Fat Controller, who sees Thomas, tells him that he still has a lot to learn about trucks.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 7
| EpisodeNumber2 = 7
| Title_1 = Thomas & the Breakdown Train
| Title_2 = Thomas Saves the Day
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Thomas the Tank Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|10|30|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = One day, a red mixed-traffic tender engine called James whistles for help when a heavy load of Trucks pushes him out of control and sets his wooden brakes on fire. Thomas reacts fast and gets the breakdown train. He later arrives at the accident site and helps out. Because of this, the Fat Controller rewards Thomas with his own branch line and two faithful coaches called Annie and Clarabel.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 8
| EpisodeNumber2 = 8
| Title_1 = James & the Coaches
| Title_2 = James Learns a Lesson
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2_1 = ''James the Red Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| Aux2_2 = Based on ''James and the Top Hat'' and ''James and the Bootlace''
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|10|30|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = James is enjoying his new life on the Island of Sodor, but still has a lot to learn - especially when he accidentally ruins the Fat Controller's new top hat and blows a hole in the brake pipe of one of his coaches.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 9
| EpisodeNumber2 = 9
| Title_1 = Troublesome Trucks
| Title_2 = Foolish Freight Cars
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''James the Red Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|11|06|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = James is stuck in the sheds after the incident with the coaches, but soon he gets let out to pull some trucks. James is more than happy, even though he does get teased by the other engines about his incident. The trucks try to make James give up, but he manages to pull them to their station.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 10
| EpisodeNumber2 = 10
| Title_1 = James & the Express
| Title_2 = A Proud Day for James
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''James the Red Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|11|06|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Gordon ends up going down a different track with the express, ironically after boasting to James that he knows the right line. James serves as Gordon's replacement for the day and the Fat Controller allows him to take the Express sometimes.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 11
| EpisodeNumber2 = 11
| Title_1 = Thomas & the Guard
| Title_2 = Thomas and the Conductor
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Tank Engine Thomas Again''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|11|13|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Thomas does a great job running his branch line with Annie and Clarabel, but soon he becomes so impatient with Henry being late, that he accidentally leaves his guard behind on a platform.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| EpisodeNumber = 12
| EpisodeNumber2 = 12
| Title = Thomas Goes Fishing
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Tank Engine Thomas Again''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|11|13|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Thomas wants to fish after seeing people fishing, but is told that engines never go fishing. The next day, Thomas needs a drink of water. But when the water tower is out of order, Thomas' crew decides to get water from the river, only to face a consequence with fish in Thomas' boiler.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 13
| EpisodeNumber2 = 13
| Title_1 = Thomas, Terence & the Snow
| Title_2 = Terence the Tractor
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Tank Engine Thomas Again''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|11|20|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Thomas meets a caterpillar tractor called Terence, and makes fun of him by saying his wheels are ugly. Terence explains that his wheels are caterpillars and he can go anywhere, which comes in handy during the winter, when Thomas damages his snowplough and gets stuck in a snowdrift.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 14
| EpisodeNumber2 = 14
| Title_1 = Thomas & Bertie
| Title_2 = Thomas and Bertie's Great Race
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Tank Engine Thomas Again''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|11|20|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Thomas meets a single-deck bus called Bertie, who reminds Thomas of the time he took his passengers after he got stuck in the snowdrift, and Terence came to pull him out; Bertie also challenges Thomas to a race to the next station.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| EpisodeNumber = 15
| EpisodeNumber2 = 15
| Title = Tenders & Turntables
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Troublesome Engines''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|11|27|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Since Thomas has to work on his branch line, Henry, Gordon and James must shunt their own coaches, which makes them angry as they say tender engines never shunt. To make matters worse, Gordon and James both encounter turntable trouble, with Gordon unable to get perfectly balanced and being forced to pull his next train tender first, and James being spun round like a top due to high wind, leaving him dizzy and completely humiliated when Gordon witnesses it. Having had enough, soon, the tender engines decide to go on strike.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| EpisodeNumber = 16
| EpisodeNumber2 = 16
| Title = Trouble in the Shed
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Troublesome Engines''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|11|27|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = When the Fat Controller sees that Gordon, James and Henry have gone on strike, he brings in Edward to end it. But when he sees Edward being treated poorly, he buys a new saddle tank engine called Percy to help and shuts the three tender engines up in the sheds. Percy soon gets to work shunting coaches and handling Thomas' branch, while Edward and Thomas work together to run the main line.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| EpisodeNumber = 17
| EpisodeNumber2 = 17
| Title = Percy Runs Away
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Troublesome Engines''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|12|04|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = The Fat Controller allows the three tender engines to go back to their jobs and then lets Percy, Edward and Thomas take a break for a while. Percy is so cheeky that he becomes careless and forgets Edward's advice about the junction. Percy is so startled by the presence of Gordon that he reverses away quickly without his crew, but gets stuck in a bank of earth. Later, Gordon pulls Percy out of the bank while congratulating him for preventing a nasty accident.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 18
| EpisodeNumber2 = 18
| Title_1 = Coal
| Title_2 = Henry's Special Coal
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Henry the Green Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|12|04|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Henry has been sick for some time and the Fat Controller is concerned about him. It turns out Henry's small firebox is unable to take the heat from the Island's coal and requires an expensive but special Welsh load. By using the Welsh coal, Henry's performance improves dramatically.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| EpisodeNumber = 19
| EpisodeNumber2 = 19
| Title = The Flying Kipper
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Henry the Green Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|12|11|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Henry is chosen to pull an early morning fish train, dubbed "the Flying Kipper". Everything goes well until ice freezes the points from the main line into a siding and snow forces down a signal set at "Danger", leading Henry to collide with another goods train in the siding. The Fat Controller sends Henry to Crewe to get a new shape and a larger firebox, allowing him to use regular coal again and making him the engine he always deserved to be.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| EpisodeNumber = 20
| EpisodeNumber2 = 20
| Title = Whistles & Sneezes
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Henry the Green Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry<hr />Based on ''Gordon's Whistle'' and ''Henry's Sneeze''
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|12|11|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Gordon is jealous that Henry has been rebuilt and complains that he whistles too much. Ironically, Gordon's whistle jams later on and he is unable to stop from whistling. The next day, some boys throw stones at Henry and break the coaches' windows. Henry's driver and fireman decide to pay the boys out by making Henry sneeze at them.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 21
| EpisodeNumber2 = 21
| Title_1 = Toby & the Stout Gentleman
| Title_2 = Toby the Tram Engine
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Toby the Tram Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|12|18|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Toby is a square tram engine who works on his own little line. He is happy there with his faithful coach Henrietta, who has seen better days, but soon he is quickly running out of work, being replaced by cars, lorries and buses. In the meantime, he is only carrying a few passengers and shunting a few trucks. Toby's line is about to be closed down for good when a letter comes for him.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 22
| EpisodeNumber2 = 22
| Title_1 = Thomas in Trouble
| Title_2 = Thomas Breaks the Rules
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Toby the Tram Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|12|18|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Thomas gets in trouble with a police constable for not having a cowcatcher or sideplates. When the Fat Controller hears about it, he buys Toby, who has both and brings Henrietta with him.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 23
| EpisodeNumber2 = 23
| Title_1 = Dirty Objects
| Title_2 = James in a Mess
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Toby the Tram Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|12|25|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Toby and Henrietta are enjoying their new life on the Island of Sodor, but James calls them "dirty objects" as they look old fashioned and need new paint. Later, James takes a goods train, but the trucks push him down Gordon's Hill so fast, that he crashes into some tar wagons. James is more dirty than hurt, but when Toby and Percy arrive to help him, Toby says that he looks more like the so-called "dirty object" now.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| NumParts = 2
| EpisodeNumber = 24
| EpisodeNumber2 = 24
| Title_1 = Off the Rails
| Title_2 = Gordon Takes a Dip
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Gordon the Big Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1985|1|8|df=y}}{{citation needed|date=September 2021}}
| ShortSummary = One morning, Gordon is very difficult. He becomes the butt of Henry and Percy's jokes and refuses to pull a goods train. His plan to jam the turntable ends in failure when he slithers into a ditch. When the Fat Controller hears about this, he leaves Gordon there until later. At night, Gordon is finally pulled out of the ditch by James and Henry, but is now miserable and humiliated because of his actions.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| EpisodeNumber = 25
| EpisodeNumber2 = 25
| Title = Down the Mine
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Gordon the Big Engine''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1985|1|8|df=y}}{{citation needed|date=September 2021}}
| ShortSummary = After his ditch incident, Gordon is forced to pull trucks as his punishment. Thomas enjoys teasing him about it much to Annie and Clarabel's dismay, but while working at the lead mines shunting trucks, he falls into one after he takes no notice of a "Danger" sign. Gordon, now feeling sorry for Thomas, pulls him out.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
{{Episode list/sublist|Thomas & Friends series 1
| EpisodeNumber = 26
| EpisodeNumber2 = 26
| Title = Thomas' Christmas Party
| DirectedBy = David Mitton
| Aux2 = ''Thomas' Christmas Party''<br />by Rev. W. Awdry
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1984|12|25|df=y}}
| ShortSummary = Christmas arrives on the Island of Sodor. All the engines are busy with passengers and parcels, especially Thomas and Toby. Thomas likes it when he passes Mrs. Kyndley's house while working and she always waves to him. Thomas then goes to the shed to talk with the other engines about throwing a Christmas party for Mrs. Kyndley to thank her for saving them from an accident a year earlier.
| LineColor = B30C0C
}}
}}</onlyinclude>


==Characters introduced==
*Introducing [[Henry the Green Engine]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
{{Main|List of Thomas & Friends characters}}
*Featuring [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]] and [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]]
*Cameos by [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]] and [[James the Red Engine|James]] (Still not yet introduced).
*First time we hear Henry's happy & sad theme and the Fat Controller's theme.
*First appearance of the Annie-and-Clarabel-coloured coaches, Although, the coaches are faceless and nameless.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Thomas Gets Tricked & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas and Gordon'' video and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].


{{Div col|colwidth=20em}}
===Edward, Gordon and Henry - UK - US)===
* [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]]
Henry has been in the tunnel for a long time now. Edward is kind to him, but Gordon keeps on teasing him. One day, Gordon tries to go fast past Henry, but bursts his safety valve on the way, meaning he can't move. Edward comes to help, but can't haul the heavy express train. The Fat Controller decides to bring Henry out of the tunnel to help pull the train, and Henry is delighted. He and Edward pull the train on time, and then help Gordon back home. Gordon gets mended, and they are now all friends.
* Edward
* Henry
* Gordon
* [[James the Red Engine|James]]
* Percy
* [[Toby the Tram Engine|Toby]]
* Troublesome Trucks
* Annie and Clarabel
* Henrietta
* Terence
* Bertie
* [[The Fat Controller|Sir Topham Hatt/The Fat Controller]]
* Stephen Hatt
* Bridget Hatt
* Mrs. Kyndley
* Lady Hatt (''not named; does not speak'')
* Farmer Finney (''cameo'')
{{div col end}}


==Home media==
*Featuring [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]], [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]], [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
===United Kingdom===
*Cameo by [[James the Red Engine|James]] (Still not yet introduced).
Series 1 was first released as two separate [[VHS]] and [[Betamax]] volumes by [[Guild Home Video]] in 1985. They remain the only ''Thomas'' related products released on the latter format. [[BBC Studios Home Entertainment|The Video Collection]] later re-released them as three VHS volumes in 1986, and have seen numerous re-releases over the years.
*First time we hear the little jingle after the titles.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Thomas Gets Tricked & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas and Gordon'' video and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*When Gordon has a happy face on you can see a microphonestand.


Video Collection International released a complete series VHS set in 1998, available as either a single-VHS or double-VHS release. It was soon released on DVD in 2004 as part of the "Classic Collection Boxset" before being released on its own the following year. The 2012 re-release by [[HIT Entertainment]] uses the 2003 restoration of the series.
===Thomas' Train - UK - US)===
Thomas is getting bored, working at the station shunting coaches all day. He complains about it, and annoys the other engines. But one morning Henry isn't feeling well, and Thomas is the only engine available to pull his train. He is excited, and becomes impatient - so much so that he leaves his coaches behind. Soon, a signalman stops him, and Thomas sadly goes back to collect the train. But the other engines teased him a lot about it, and he learned not to be so impatient with coaches.


Episodes from the series have also made it to various compilation releases with other series.
*Featuring [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*Cameos by [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]], [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]] and [[James the Red Engine|James]] (Still not yet introduced)
*First sign of Henry's illness, which would become a recurring theme.
*First time we hear Thomas' theme.
*Thomas gets Gordon's speed when he's all the way through the shot he is outside that station, but when it comes to the close up of him, he seems to have got into a station in a milisecond.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Thomas Gets Tricked & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the, and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*Thomas has slow wheels.


===United States===
===Thomas and the Trucks - UK - US)===
Strand VCI Entertainment and [[Anchor Bay Entertainment]] have released Series 1 episodes on various VHS and DVD volumes.
Thomas is fed up with shunting coaches in the yard, and his complaining annoys the other engines. Edward comes to him and offers to swap jobs. Thomas is to take Edward's trucks, and Edward shunts coaches. Thomas is delighted, and bumps the trucks. The trucks decide to take revenge. At the top of Gordon's Hill, they push Thomas along the line out of control. Thomas is terrified, and ends up stopping just before some buffers in the Yard. The Fat Controller is there, and sorts out the problem with Thomas. Thomas learns he has to be careful with trucks.


In 2004, the complete series was released on DVD as part of a 3-disc boxset titled "The Early Years", featuring the original UK narrations and titles for the first time in the US.
*Introducing [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Troublesome Trucks|Troublesome Trucks]]
*Featuring [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*Cameos by [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]], [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]] and [[James the Red Engine|James]] (Still not yet introduced).
*Between the time when Thomas left the station and when he reached the top of Gordon's hill, the trucks were in different order.
*When the trucks grow crosser and crosser, Thomas pulls actually only one truck.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Thomas Gets Tricked & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas and Gordon'' video and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the , and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*When Thomas goes into Henry's Tunnel he has two small Box Vans though when he comes out he has a Mail Truck-like Van with 4 wheels after the second Truck. Also when Thomas goes up Gordons Hill the Truck has 8 Wheels.


==References==
===Thomas and the Breakdown Train - UK - US)===
<references />
Thomas is still busy shunting trucks and coaches around the yard. He sees some unusual trucks. His driver explains that this is the 'Breakdown Train' which is used to lift engines, coaches and trucks when they derail. Then he sees a new engine called James, who is being pushed along the line by trucks out of control with his brakes on fire. He eventually crashes into a field. Thomas rushes to the rescue. He helps James back on to the rails and clears away the broken trucks. The Fat Controller decides that Thomas is a responsible engine, and rewards him with his own branch line.

*Introducing [[James the Red Engine]]
*Featuring [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]], [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Troublesome Trucks|Troublesome Trucks]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*Cameos by [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]] and [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]]
*This episode features the first accident in the series, although it is off-screen.
*First appearance of the Breakdown Train.
*First time we hear Troublesome Trucks' theme, the Breakdown Train's theme and the runaway theme.
*The thin wires are along with cranes while James is being put back on the rails.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Thomas Gets Tricked & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas and Gordon'' video and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the , and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*A deleted scene shows Thomas leaving the siding after his driver tells him about the Breakdown Train.
*When Thomas is taking on water, his water cap is closed.
*Before James crashes into a cow field, the truck has a smaller chain pulling it along.
*When James wheels Spark you can see Rods under the Tracks to make his wheels spark.

===James and the Coaches - UK - US)===
James, after having an accident in a paddock on his first day, is now trying to be really useful. He does however cause trouble, when he wets the Fat Controller's new top hat with steam, and then bumps coaches so hard that one of their brakes fail and has to be fixed with newspaper and a passenger's bootlace. James gets through the problems, but gets scolded by the Fat Controller.

*Featuring [[James the Red Engine|James]], [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]], [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*[[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]] is mentioned by James.
*[http://videodetective.com/photos/779/032752_23.jpg Screenshot]
*A face of Clarabel can be seen on one of James' coaches.
*First time we hear James' theme.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''James Learns a Lesson & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas and Gordon'' video and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*This is a part two version of introducing [[James the Red Engine|James]]
*Last appearances of the goat's field and Henry's Tunnel (until Season 4).
*First appearance of Dryaw Station.
*This is the first episode without Henry or Gordon.

===Troublesome Trucks - UK - US)===
James is in trouble with the Fat Controller. He has been confined to the shed for a long time, but is released to pull trucks. He works hard, and then takes a goods train up Gordon's Hill. The trucks misbehave, but James doesn't give up. When he climbs the hill, some of his trucks break free and run away. James is cross, but the guard stops the trucks. Edward offers to help, but James declines. He gets the cars coupled up again, and puffs away. Later, the Fat Controller, who was on Edward's train, comes to see James. He tells him he saw what happened in Edward's train, and is very proud of James for making the most troublesome train on the line behave. James, now being a useful engine again, is very happy.

*Featuring [[James the Red Engine|James]], [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]], [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Troublesome Trucks|Troublesome Trucks]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''James Learns a Lesson & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Troublesome Trucks'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*When James' train breaks, initially there are five trucks going down the hill, not counting the brake van, but once it rolls to the bottom of the hill, there are only four trucks.
*It is filmed the same time as ''Thomas and the Trucks.
*A thin wire is pulling James up Gordon's Hill when he reaches almost the top.

===James and the Express - UK - US)===
James, after proving himself useful, is to shunt coaches in the yard. Gordon puffs by, boasting about himself as usual, saying he could take the Express by instinct. James ignores him, and continues working. Later, James sees Gordon puff into the station quietly and sadly. He finds out Gordon was switched the wrong way and got lost. The Fat Controller is cross with him, and James teases Gordon. James ends up taking the Express, and is delighted. He has a great time pulling the train, and the Fat Controller tells him that he can pull it again when Gordon is busy. He meets Gordon afterwards, who is pushing trucks. They become friends, and don't tease each other about bootlaces or being stuck on a hill ever again!

*Featuring [[James the Red Engine|James]], [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*Cameos by [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]] and [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]]
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''James Learns a Lesson and Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].

===Thomas and the Guard - UK - US)===
Thomas is very busy working on his branch line with Annie and Clarabel. But one morning Henry is late, and this makes Thomas cross. When Henry finally arrives, Thomas teases him, and hurries away. Because he is in such a rush, he leaves the guard behind. The guard chases the train down the line, as Thomas tries to make up for lost time, oblivious to what has happened. Thomas finally stops at a signal, and the guard is able to catch up. When he does, he has a rest and a drink. Thomas apologises, and sets off again. He learns an important lesson about being careful.

*Introducing [[Annie and Clarabel]]
*Featuring [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]] and the [[People and animals (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Guard|Guard]]
*[[The Fat Controller]] is mentioned by Ringo Starr, George Carlin and Thomas.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''James Learns a Lesson & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*This is the first episode without James whether cameo or speaking role.

===Thomas Goes Fishing===
Thomas loves his branch line. He especially loves it when he travels over the big bridge, where he sees people fishing. Thomas often wants to watch, but his driver doesn't let him. Thomas also wants to fish, but the other engines say he can't. The next day Thomas needs a drink, but the water tower is out of order, so Thomas' crew decide to get water from the river. He enjoys it, but soon gets a pain in his boiler. He puffs into a siding feeling as if his boiler is about to explode, a very real threat on steam engines. The guard telephones for an engine inspector, and surrounds Thomas with warning signs that say "Danger, Keep Away". The Inspector and the Fat Controller soon find the cause of the problem - Thomas' driver and fireman have picked up some fish with the water, and now Thomas has them inside him! The men go fishing in Thomas' water tank, and enjoy a picnic supper of fish and chips. Thomas decides that he isn't so keen on fishing any more and it's too uncomfortable to fish.

*Featuring [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[Annie and Clarabel]], [[James the Red Engine|James]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*Cameo by [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Troublesome Trucks|Troublesome Trucks]]
*This is the first episode to have the same name both in the UK and the US versions.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''James Learns a Lesson & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*Thomas is wearing one of Percy's faces.
*Stock footage from ''Thomas and the Trucks is used.
*Pencil marks are on the 'DANGER! KEEP AWAY!' sign.
*Thomas shares Percy's exhausted face in this episode.

===Thomas, Terence and the Snow - UK - US)===
It is autumn on the Island of Sodor. Thomas, pulling Annie and Clarabel, meets Terence the Tractor. Thomas says Terence's wheels are ugly. Terence explains that they are caterpillar tracks, and he can go "anywhere". Thomas puffs crossly away. Winter soon arrives, and Thomas has to wear his snowplough. He hates it, so he bangs and clangs it while he's working, and damages it so much that he can't wear it anymore. Thomas is delighted, and sets off the next day without it. But his pride is short-lived when he gets stuck in a snowdrift. Luckily, Bertie picks up Thomas' passengers, and Terence comes to the rescue. Terence pulls Thomas out of the snowdrift. Thomas apologises, and they become friends.

*Introducing [[Terence the Tractor]]
*Featuring [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]] and [[Annie and Clarabel]]
*Cameo by [[Bertie the Bus|Bertie]] (Not yet introduced)
*First appearance of Thomas' snowplough.
*Thomas has his first accident in this episode.
*This is the first episode where an accident is seen on-screen.
*First time we hear Annie and Clarabel's theme and Terence's theme.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''James Learns a Lesson & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ' and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].

===Thomas and Bertie - UK - US)===
Thomas is happy on his branch line. One day he stops at a signal near the bus depot, and meets a bus named Bertie. Bertie reminds Thomas of the time he took his passengers after he got stuck in the snow and Terence came to pull him out, and Thomas gets jealous. He challenges Bertie to a race. Thomas and Bertie speed along the branch line, each one meeting various obstacles along the way. Thomas ends up winning the race thanks to a tunnel, with Bertie following closely behind. Both get congratulated, and become best friends. They hope they can have another race.

*Introducing [[Bertie the Bus]]
*Featuring [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]] and [[Annie and Clarabel]]
*[[Terence the Tractor|Terence]] is mentioned by Bertie and [[The Fat Controller]] is mentioned by Ringo Starr and George Carlin.
*First time we hear Bertie's theme.
*When Thomas meets Bertie, there's another bus just like Bertie facing in the shed.
*This episode has the famous Thomas and Bertie's race, which is also brought up many times throughout the series.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''James Learns a Lesson & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*The only expression for Bertie is happy.
*Thomas shares Percy's exhausted face again in this episode

===Tenders and Turntables===
Gordon, James, and Henry are upset that they have more work to do. Now that Thomas is gone, they have to shunt their own coaches. Gordon tells Thomas that the tender engines have a position to keep up but Thomas ignores him. Gordon is chosen to pull a special train, but can't turn around because his weight and the strong winds are preventing the turntable from spinning properly. He ends up being a tank engine and pulling the train backwards, and Thomas and James tease him. James later has to turn around on the turntable. Because he is lighter, he stops in the correct place, but then the high winds spin him around like a top, much to the delight of a nearby Gordon. They both are cross, and plan with Henry about striking and making the Fat Controller look silly.

*Featuring [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]], [[James the Red Engine|James]], [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*Cameo by [[Annie and Clarabel]]
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Tenders and Turntable & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*The stories are out of continuity, with the story "Henry and the Elephant" not in its proper location.
*First episode Gordon pulls a train backwards.
*At the end, Henry has wrong faces.

===Trouble in the Shed===
Gordon, James and Henry are causing trouble for the Fat Controller. They are going on strike for being treated unfairly, and refuse to work. The Fat Controller scolds them, and goes to get Edward so he can work in the yard again. Then, the Fat Controller goes and buys another engine from an Engine Workshop. The new engine is called Percy, and is told to shunt trucks in the yard with Edward. Percy is happy and cheeky, and likes to work hard. Gordon, James and Henry then feel sorry and silly.

*Introducing [[Percy the Small Engine]]
*Featuring [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]], [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]], [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]], [[James the Red Engine|James]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*Cameo by [[Annie and Clarabel]]
*This is the first time an engine pulls Annie and Clarabel instead of Thomas.
*First time we hear Percy's theme.
*Percy wears only one face throughout the entire episode. He is the first engine to do this.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Tenders and Turntable & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*When Edward's close up he is seen without any tender.
*The 'New' Engine's model identity left to right; Gordon, Thomas, James, Henry, Edward and Percy.
*When Henry approaches Percy he has his New Shape on though when Percy hisses steam at him his old Shape is on.

===Percy Runs Away===
Percy, the new engine, is working hard. He is however being cheeky, and annoying Gordon, James and Henry. Edward offers to swap jobs with him, and he is delighted. However, he ignores Edward's warning about going on the main line, and almost collides with Gordon and the Express. Percy gets so frightened that he runs away backwards down the line. He ends up in a bank of earth in a siding, and Gordon comes and pulls him out. Afterwards, Percy and Gordon form a close friendship. Although, Percy is still cheeky owing to his personality, but he always careful when going on the main line.

*Featuring [[Percy the Small Engine|Percy]], [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]], [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]], [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[James the Red Engine|James]], [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]], [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Troublesome Trucks|Troublesome Trucks]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*First story to feature all engine characters in a visual speaking role.
*Cameo by [[Annie and Clarabel]]
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Tenders and Turntable & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Big Day for Thomas'' video and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*When Percy starts to run away a close inspection, you can see the flap were the steam comes from.
*This is the first time an engine puffed up Gordon's hill without stopping.
*First episode to have Percy with his eyes shut.
*First episode an engine actually runs away and goes up Gordon's hill backwards.
*First appearances of Percy's shocked face, Percy's tired face, Gordon's recuse cable and Lower Suddery station.

===Coal - UK (Henry's Special Coal - US)===
Henry is not feeling well. His firebox is too small, and he can't make enough steam. Sometimes he doesn't even have enough power to pull a train. The Fat Controller addresses the problem, and comes to a conclusion that Henry needs different coal. Welsh coal is soon available for Henry, and he feels better than ever. Little does Henry know his next incident would change everything...

*Featuring [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]], [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[James the Red Engine|James]], [[Annie and Clarabel]], and [[The Fat Controller]]
*Cameo by [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]]
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Tenders and Turntable & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''A Big Day for Thomas'' video and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*When Henry's driver/fireman is holding the coal, you can see a sticky tack between the coal and his hand.
*In a cameo right before Henry reaches the junction, he is seen in his new form.
*When Henry comes out of the sidings his tender can be seen a litte bit.
*When Henry is in Knapford with the Fat Controller the brake coach in back moved.
*When Henry is in Knapford with the Fat Controller, the truck changes.

===The Flying Kipper===
Henry, now having new Welsh Coal and feeling better, is chosen to pull the 'Flying Kipper', a train of fish vans to deliver around Sodor. He is happy, and soon sets off for the snowy countryside in the early morning. He is having a good time, but he misreads a signal that is supposed to say danger, but was forced down by snow. It leads along a siding, where a goods train is waiting, and Henry, unable to stop in time, crashes into it and falls onto the trackside. The breakdown train arrives, as well as the Fat Controller, who explains that it wasn't his fault. He sends Henry to Crewe, a workshop for sick engines, and although doubtful at first, Henry returns with a new shape and bigger firebox, and gains a huge confidence boost.

*Introducing [[The Flying Kipper]]
*Featuring [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*Cameos by [[James the Red Engine|James]] and [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]]
*Henry's first and the most violent accident ever.
*When Henry is pulling the express when they have a close up to his face, he is in his new shape.
*This is the first time an engine completely goes off the track on screen.
*First appearance of Henry's new shape.
*First time we hear the Flying Kipper's theme.
*Seconds after the collision, a finger is seen on the very back of Henry's tender pushing him into the break van.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Tenders and Turntable & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''A Big Day for Thomas'' video and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*When Henry flies off the track, he seems to be smiling.
*When Henry almost runs into a goods train, he is in his new shape (without the neck holders).
*When Henry crashes into the goods train, the siding beside goods train appears and disappears in several shots.
*It is not Clear but James may have been pulling the Goods Train. Just before Henry crashes you can see an Engine in front of the Goods Train and appeared to be a Tender Engine as well.
*A close-up of Henry when he should be in his new shape, he seems to be in his old one.
* Only time an engine's shape is changed.

===Whistles and Sneezes===
Henry, now having his new shape, tends to whistle loudly and happily. Gordon despises this, and tells him not to whistle so much. Henry is sad, but cheers up one day when Gordon's whistle jams 'on', and won't stop whistling! Soon the problem is fixed, but Gordon was still teased afterward. Later on, Henry experiences troubles of his own, when boys throw stones at him from a bridge, breaking his coaches' windows, and annoying his crew and the passengers. He and his driver teach the boys a lesson when Henry sneezes at them covering them in black ash and soot.

*Featuring [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]], [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]], [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]], [[Percy the Small Engine|Percy]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*Cameos by [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]] and [[James the Red Engine|James]]
*This story is 'Gordon's Whistle' and 'Henry's Sneeze' from the Railway Series combined.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD, but if he did a US version of this episode in the ''Tenders and Turntables'' video.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Daisy & Other Thomas Stories'' video, the ''Best of Gordon'' video & DVD and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*This episode was originally plan to be on the ''Tenders and Turntables & Other Stories'' video with Ringo Starr's US narration.
*Gordon can be seen with Henry's face.
*The model of Henry with the old shape is seen when Ringo Starr or George Carlin says "'Trickety-trock, Trickety-trock,' hummed his coaches."
*First appearances of Lower Tidmouth station and Henry's sneezing face.

===Toby and the Stout Gentleman - UK (Toby the Tram Engine - US)===
Toby is a tram engine who works on a little line in the North of Sodor. He is happy there with his coach Henrietta, but is quickly running out of work, being replaced by lorries and buses. Soon, he is only carrying a few passengers and shunting few trucks. But one day he gets a surprise, when a stout gentleman (the Fat Controller) and his grandchildren visit the old line. Toby is very happy, taking them around the line. After they thank him and leave, Toby keeps running out of work. One day, his line closes down, much to the disappointment of him and Henrietta. They are confined to a small shed, until one day the stout gentleman writes him a letter for a special favor....

*Introducing [[Toby the Tram Engine]], [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Henrietta|Henrietta]] and [[The Fat Controller]]'s family (Lady Hatt, Bridget and Stephen)
*Featuring [[The Fat Controller]]
*Cameo by [[Troublesome Trucks]]
*First time we hear Toby's happy theme.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Tenders and Turntable & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the Shining Time Station episode, ''How the Station Got Its Name''.
*A station seen in this episode as the station where Toby meets the Fat Controller was seen for a brief shot in "Thomas and Bertie's Great Race". The same was for the windmill seen in the stated episode, and the original theme video. This points to the fact that Thomas' Branch line used part of Toby's line.
*First proper appearance of Arlesdale End and Toby on Thomas' Branch Line.
*This is the first episode without the Fat Controller's engines.

===Thomas in Trouble - UK (Thomas Breaks the Rules - US)===
Every day Thomas travels down a part of his line, which runs beside a road. Usually the friendly policeman at the crossing lets him pass, but a new policeman has taken over, and does not take kindly to Thomas whistling to him in a friendly way. Things take a turn for the worse when the policeman books Thomas as a lawbraker for not having cowcatchers. Soon the Fat Controller hears about it, and tries to explain to the policeman that Thomas is no danger, but the strict policeman says that the law is the law and it can't be changed, so the Fat Controller decides to get Thomas the cowcatchers. Aghast, Thomas protests that other engines will laugh at him and say he's a tram, which prompts the Fat Controller remembering the engine he met on his holiday, Toby. He immediately writes to Toby's controller, and arranges for Toby to come to work on Thomas' branch line. At first, Thomas is jealous, but soon becomes good friends with Toby, particularly after Toby uses his bell to scare the policeman!

*Featuring [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[Toby the Tram Engine|Toby]], [[The Fat Controller]] and [[Annie and Clarabel]]
*Cameos by [[James the Red Engine|James]], [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Henrietta|Henrietta]] and [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Troublesome Trucks|Troublesome Trucks]]
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Thomas Breaks the Rules & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Thomas and his Friends Help Out'' video, the ''Big Day for Thomas'' video and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*First and only appearance of the bad-tempered policeman.
*This is first episode to have telephone conversation.
*The Fat Controller's butler has a British accent by George Carlin.

===Dirty Objects - UK (James in a Mess - US)===
Toby is still new to the railway, and often gets bullied by James about his and Henrietta's appearance. But one day James gets pushed out of control by trucks, and pushed into the yard. He runs into two idling tar wagons, smashing them, and derailing himself, resulting in him getting covered in tar. Percy and Toby soon bring the breakdown train, and help James out of his sticky situation. The Fat Controller then scolds James, so he gets embarrassed, especially when Toby teases James for being dirty himself.

*Featuring [[James the Red Engine|James]], [[Toby the Tram Engine|Toby]], [[Percy the Small Engine|Percy]], [[The Fat Controller]] and [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Troublesome Trucks|Troublesome Trucks]]
*Cameos by [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]] with [[Annie and Clarabel]] and [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Henrietta|Henrietta]]
*James' second accident, and first seen on-screen.
*Seconds after the collision, a finger is seen on a truck pushing James into the tar wagons. This is the second time an actual human is accidentally seen on screes (the first was in the Flying Kipper).
*A deleted scene shows James going over a bridge before Maron station.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Thomas Breaks the Rules & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Thomas and his Friends Get Along'' video, the ''Best of James'' video & DVD and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*When Ringo Starr or George Carlin says "Disaster lay ahead.", James is missing.
*In the UK version and US version, Ringo Starr says "Through the station they thundered, Disaster lay ahead."
*In the US version, George Carlin says "Disaster lay ahead."
*When James pulls the Trucks out of Elsbridge The Mouthless Truck can be seen before the Last two Trucks though the rest of the time he's behind James.

===Off the Rails - UK (Gordon Takes a Dip - US)===
Gordon is resting at the big station when he sees Henry is chosen to pull the Express. This makes him cross, as he taunts Henry not to have an accident, saying he has never had one himself. Percy cheekily reminds him though, of his infamous 'burst safety valve' and 'jammed whistle' incidents, and this only makes him more cross, when he finds he has to pull a special goods train. He refuses to go, and Edward has to help him to the turntable. He concocts a scheme of jamming the table for revenge, but it backfires when Gordon misjudges and slides into a muddy ditch. He now realizes his mistake, and is taunted by some schoolboys. The Fat Controller arranges for Edward to take the train, and later that night Henry and James help him back to the shed, and he crawls home a sadder and wiser engine.

*Featuring [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]], [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]], [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]], [[Percy the Small Engine|Percy]], [[James the Red Engine|James]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*[[The Flying Kipper]] is mentioned
*Gordon's first accident.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Better Late Than Never & Other Stories'' video, the ''Thomas' Railway Adventures'' DVD and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ' and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*James' wheels don't move when he's pulling Gordon out of the swamp.
*When Gordon falls into a ditch, a wire attached to his tender is below his cab.
*First episode the express is taken from Platform 5.

===Down the Mine===
Thomas teases Gordon about the time he fell in a ditch, much to the horror of Annie and Clarabel. Thomas doesn't care a bit, and is then sent to work at the Mines. He notices a danger board that says "Danger, Engines Must Not Pass This Board" near the tracks, and wants to go past it to prove there's no danger. One day Thomas makes a plan, and ends up pushing cars past the board. He feels the tracks sag, and ends up falling down a mine! His crew however jumped clear. Thomas feels most embarrassed when it is Gordon, using his winch, who pulls Thomas back out. They apologise to each other, and become an alliance.

*Featuring [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]], [[Annie and Clarabel]] and [[The Fat Controller]]
*Cameo by [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Troublesome Trucks|Troublesome Trucks]]
*Final appearance of the Old Coaches (to date).
*First time we hear the accident theme.
*Thomas's second accident.
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Better Late Than Never & Other Stories'' video and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*Final appearance of Thomas's scared/frustrated face.
*First episode an engine takes the side track past Knapford.
*First and only appearance of the mine.
*Second appearance of Gordon's rescue cable.
* When the narrator says "But thomas didn't want to meet Gordon, just yet.", Look closely above Thomas' left eye, you can see a piece of hair
*When Gordon couples Thomas, his siderods are moving.

===Thomas' Christmas Party===
It's Christmas on the Island of Sodor. All the engines are busy with passengers and parcels, especially Thomas. He likes it when he passes Mrs. Kyndley's house while working, and she always waves to him. Thomas says it wouldn't be Christmas without Mrs. Kyndley, and then goes to the shed to discuss to the other engines about throwing a Christmas party for her. All the engines agree, as does the Fat Controller. While making preparations for the party, they hear that Mrs. Kyndley is snowed up in her house. Thomas and Toby soon come to the rescue, and bring Mrs. Kyndley to the party.

*Featuring [[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]], [[Toby the Tram Engine|Toby]], [[Percy the Small Engine|Percy]], [[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]], [[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]], [[James the Red Engine|James]], [[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]], [[Terence the Tractor|Terence]], [[The Fat Controller]], [[People and animals (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Mrs. Kyndley|Mrs. Kyndley]] and [[Annie and Clarabel]]
*Cameos by [[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Henrietta|Henrietta]] and [[Bertie the Bus|Bertie]]
*[[Ringo Starr]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Shining Time Station'' special video episode, '''Tis A Gift'' and narrates the UK version of this episode in the ''Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends'' Season 1 collection and in ''THE EARLY YEARS'' DVD.
*[[George Carlin]] narrates the US version of this episode on the ''Thomas' Christmas Party & Other Favorite Stories'' video, the ''Thomas' Christmas Wonderland & Other Thomas Adventures'' video & DVD, the ''Thomas' Snowy Surprise & Other Adventures'' video & DVD and on [[PBS KIDS Sprout]].
*First episode an engine wears an item.
*At the end of the episode, the Fat Controller is standing on Lego blocks.
*This is the first episode with a flashback.

==Notes==
*This season introduces many of the main locations around Sodor including Knapford (The Big Station), Gordon's Hill (by Wellsworth), and Tidmouth (The Shed)
*The characters introduced in this season would become the central characters in seasons to come. In Season 8, the railway engines introduced in this season (Thomas, Edward, Henry, Gordon, James, Percy and Toby) are seven of the eight engines who form the "''Steam Team''".
*All of the stories featured in this season were written by the [[W.V. Awdry|Rev. W. Awdry]]. The only one of these stories which did not originally feature in ''[[The Railway Series]]'' was "Thomas' Christmas Party", although this story does reference Railway Series events.

==Characters introduced==
''Note that since this is the first season of the series, all characters featured in the season were "introduced" in some way. This section lists which episode each character had a "formal" introduction in.''
*[[Thomas the Tank Engine|Thomas]] (''Thomas and Gordon'')
*[[Edward the Blue Engine|Edward]] (''Edward and Gordon'')
*[[Henry the Green Engine|Henry]] (''The Sad Story of Henry'')
*[[Gordon the Big Engine|Gordon]] (''Thomas and Gordon'')
*[[James the Red Engine|James]] (''Thomas and the Breakdown Train'')
*[[Percy the Small Engine|Percy]] (''Trouble in the Shed'')
*[[Toby the Tram Engine|Toby]] (''Toby and the Stout Gentleman'')
*[[Bertie the Bus|Bertie]] (''Thomas and Bertie'')
*[[Terence the Tractor|Terence]] (''Thomas, Terence and the Snow'')
*[[The Fat Controller]] (''The Sad Story of Henry'')
*[[People and animals (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Lady Hatt|Lady Hatt]] (''Toby and the Stout Gentleman'')
*[[People and animals (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Stephen Hatt|Stephen Hatt]] (''Toby and the Stout Gentleman'')
*[[People and animals (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Bridget Hatt|Bridget Hatt]] (''Toby and the Stout Gentleman'')
*[[People and animals (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Mrs. Kyndley|Mrs. Kyndley]] (''Thomas' Christmas Party'')
*[[Annie and Clarabel]] (''Thomas and the Guard'')
*[[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Henrietta|Henrietta]] (''Toby and the Stout Gentleman'')
*[[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Troublesome Trucks|Troublesome Trucks]] (''Thomas and the Trucks'')
*[[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Green and Cream Express Coaches|Green and Cream Express Coaches]] (''Thomas and Gordon'')
*[[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Old Coaches|Old Coaches]] (''Edward and Gordon'')
*[[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Annie-and-Clarabel-coloured, faceless and nameless coaches|Annie-and-Clarabel-coloured, faceless and nameless coaches]] (''The Sad Story of Henry'')
*[[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#The Breakdown Train|The Breakdown Train]] (''Thomas and the Breakdown Train'')
*[[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#The Flying Kipper|The Flying Kipper]] (''The Flying Kipper'')
*[[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Brake Van|Brake Van]] (''Thomas and the Trucks'')
*[[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Tar Tanker|Tar Tanker]] (''Dirty Objects'')
*[[Rolling stock (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#Milk Tanker|Milk Tanker]] (''Thomas and the Breakdown Train'')


{{Thomas & Friends}}
==Credits==
*Based on the Railway Series by: The Rev. W. Awdry
*Adaptation by: Britt Allcroft
*Told by: Ringo Starr, George Carlin
*Directed by: David Mitton
*Model Engines & Characters by: Clearwater Model Making Systems Ltd, David Payne, Jo Webster, Chris Noulton, David Lillie, Tim Staffel
*Supervisors: John Pennicott, Tim Staffel
*Models & Sets: Jamie Bowering, Jamie Jackson-Moore, Ben Cain, John Holmes, Tom Vane
*Specialized Model Making: Bernard Carr, John Kerr, Ian Kerr
*Construction: Frank Schultz
*Camera Crew Focus: Barry Brown, Colin Davidson, Tony Brown
*Camera Assistant: John Atwell
*Lighting: Beams Film & TV Lighting
*Gaffer: Steve Dempsey
*Camera Equipment & Specialized Lighting: Turmite Camera Hide Ltd, Clearwater Camera Computer Systems Ltd
*Dubbing: Mag-Masters London
*Production Assistant: Nasreen Khan
*Lighting Cameraman: Terry Permane
*Art Director: Bob Gauld-Galliers
*2nd Unit Director: Stephen Asquith
*Music Composed & Arranged by: Mike O'Donnell and Junior Campbell, Bluebird Themes
*Video Facilities: Research Recordings
*Editor: Michael Dixon
*Assistant Editor: Andrea MacArthur
*Producers: Robert D. Cardona, David Mitton
*Executive Producer: Britt Allcroft


{{Thomas}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Thomas And Friends Series 01}}
[[Category:1984 British television seasons]]
[[Category:Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends|Thomas and Friends - Season 01]]
[[Category:1985 British television seasons]]
[[Category:1989 American animated television seasons]]
[[Category:Festival Records video albums]]
[[Category:Mushroom Records video albums]]
[[Category:Warner Records video albums]]
[[Category:Thomas & Friends seasons]]

Latest revision as of 22:17, 1 January 2025

Thomas & Friends
Series 1
DVD cover art
No. of episodes26
Release
Original networkITV (Central) (via Children's ITV)
Original release9 October 1984 (1984-10-09) –
8 January 1985 (1985-01-08)
Series chronology
Next →
Series 2
List of episodes

Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends is a children's television series about the engines and other characters working on the railways of the Island of Sodor, and is based on The Railway Series books written by the Reverend W. Awdry.

This article lists and details episodes from the first series of the show, which was originally broadcast in 1984. This series was initially narrated by Ringo Starr for the United Kingdom audiences, who later re-narrated 25 episodes for the United States. The entire series was narrated by George Carlin for the US audiences.

It was produced by Clearwater Features Ltd. for Britt Allcroft (Thomas the Tank Engine) Ltd. and Central Independent Television.

Production

[edit]

All of the stories in Series 1 were originally written by the Rev. W. Awdry, including a one-off story commissioned by the staff, Thomas' Christmas Party. The seven engines introduced in this series became the core of the cast in later episodes, with crew member (and from Series 8–12, director) Steve Asquith terming them the "Magnificent Seven".[1] Many settings from the first series would stay with the show for years, even through its 2009 transition to CGI, such as Knapford Station, Wellsworth, Gordon's Hill, Henry's Tunnel, and Tidmouth Sheds.

The pilot for the series, which was never aired on television, was filmed in April 1983. It was an adaptation of "Down the Mine",[2] which was remade entirely when the rest of the episodes were shot.[1]

Filming lasted 7 months from September 1983 to March 1984. Post production was completed in April, 6 months before its official debut on October 9, 1984.[citation needed]

This series, along with the one that succeeds it, was narrated by Ringo Starr. However in 1989, Shining Time Station was created as a way to bring Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends to American television. Ringo Starr portrayed Mr. Conductor, a tiny magical conductor who told stories of engines on the Island of Sodor. Starr re-narrated twenty five of the episodes in the first series, "Whistles and Sneezes" being the exception. Terms like "trucks" and "guards" were renamed to "freight cars" and "conductors" in the new narration. After Starr left the show, American comedian George Carlin played Mr. Conductor's cousin and narrated all episodes from the first series to the fourth series.[3] The first season of Shining Time Station lists the Thomas stories' original UK titles in the end credits, but were re-titled for later seasons and for home video.

Episodes

[edit]
Main article: List of Thomas & Friends episodes
No.
overall		No. in
series		UK title (top)
US title (bottom)		Directed bySourceOriginal air date
11"Thomas & Gordon"David MittonThomas the Tank Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		9 October 1984 (1984-10-09)
"Thomas Gets Tricked"
A little blue tank engine called Thomas lives and works at a big station on the Island of Sodor. He enjoys teasing the other engines, especially Gordon, the biggest and proudest tender engine of all. When Thomas gets carried away with the teasing, Gordon decides to teach him a lesson.
22"Edward & Gordon"David MittonThe Three Railway Engines
by Rev. W. Awdry		9 October 1984 (1984-10-09)
"Edward Helps Out"Based on Edward's Day Out and the story of the same name (Edward & Gordon)
Edward is a blue mixed-traffic tender engine, who has been in the shed and not out working for quite a while. Edward's driver and fireman feel sorry for him and decide to use him one day. Soon, Edward helps Gordon the next day when the big engine gets stuck on a hill with a goods train.
33"The Sad Story of Henry"David MittonThe Three Railway Engines
by Rev. W. Awdry		16 October 1984 (1984-10-16)
"Come Out, Henry!"
A green mixed-traffic tender engine named Henry is afraid of the rain, thinking it will spoil his lovely green paint and red stripes. One day, he hides in a tunnel and refuses to come out. After numerous failed attempts to convince him, Sir Topham Hatt (known as the Fat Controller), the man in charge of all the engines, has no choice but to wall Henry up in the tunnel.
44"Edward, Gordon & Henry"David MittonThe Three Railway Engines
by Rev. W. Awdry		16 October 1984 (1984-10-16)
"Henry to the Rescue"
Henry has been stuck in the south tunnel for a really long time and regrets being so stubborn. One day, Gordon goes too fast with the express and bursts his safety valve near the north portal of Henry's Tunnel. Edward is the only engine available, but the train is too heavy to push without Henry's help.
55"Thomas' Train"David MittonThomas the Tank Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		23 October 1984 (1984-10-23)
"A Big Day for Thomas"
Thomas is getting bored with shunting and wishes that he would pull coaches instead of merely collecting them. One day, when Henry is ill, his chance comes, but he accidentally starts off before being coupled up to the train.
66"Thomas & the Trucks"David MittonThomas the Tank Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		23 October 1984 (1984-10-23)
"Trouble for Thomas"
Thomas is tired of pushing coaches and wants to see the world. One night, Edward tells him that if he can take his goods train, he will push coaches in the yard. Thomas gets his chance, is too excited to pay attention to Edward's advice. At the top of Gordon's hill, Thomas puts on his brakes. But the Troublesome Trucks proceed to push him to the bottom, where he stops at a siding. The Fat Controller, who sees Thomas, tells him that he still has a lot to learn about trucks.
77"Thomas & the Breakdown Train"David MittonThomas the Tank Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		30 October 1984 (1984-10-30)
"Thomas Saves the Day"
One day, a red mixed-traffic tender engine called James whistles for help when a heavy load of Trucks pushes him out of control and sets his wooden brakes on fire. Thomas reacts fast and gets the breakdown train. He later arrives at the accident site and helps out. Because of this, the Fat Controller rewards Thomas with his own branch line and two faithful coaches called Annie and Clarabel.
88"James & the Coaches"David MittonJames the Red Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		30 October 1984 (1984-10-30)
"James Learns a Lesson"Based on James and the Top Hat and James and the Bootlace
James is enjoying his new life on the Island of Sodor, but still has a lot to learn - especially when he accidentally ruins the Fat Controller's new top hat and blows a hole in the brake pipe of one of his coaches.
99"Troublesome Trucks"David MittonJames the Red Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		6 November 1984 (1984-11-06)
"Foolish Freight Cars"
James is stuck in the sheds after the incident with the coaches, but soon he gets let out to pull some trucks. James is more than happy, even though he does get teased by the other engines about his incident. The trucks try to make James give up, but he manages to pull them to their station.
1010"James & the Express"David MittonJames the Red Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		6 November 1984 (1984-11-06)
"A Proud Day for James"
Gordon ends up going down a different track with the express, ironically after boasting to James that he knows the right line. James serves as Gordon's replacement for the day and the Fat Controller allows him to take the Express sometimes.
1111"Thomas & the Guard"David MittonTank Engine Thomas Again
by Rev. W. Awdry		13 November 1984 (1984-11-13)
"Thomas and the Conductor"
Thomas does a great job running his branch line with Annie and Clarabel, but soon he becomes so impatient with Henry being late, that he accidentally leaves his guard behind on a platform.
1212"Thomas Goes Fishing"David MittonTank Engine Thomas Again
by Rev. W. Awdry		13 November 1984 (1984-11-13)
Thomas wants to fish after seeing people fishing, but is told that engines never go fishing. The next day, Thomas needs a drink of water. But when the water tower is out of order, Thomas' crew decides to get water from the river, only to face a consequence with fish in Thomas' boiler.
1313"Thomas, Terence & the Snow"David MittonTank Engine Thomas Again
by Rev. W. Awdry		20 November 1984 (1984-11-20)
"Terence the Tractor"
Thomas meets a caterpillar tractor called Terence, and makes fun of him by saying his wheels are ugly. Terence explains that his wheels are caterpillars and he can go anywhere, which comes in handy during the winter, when Thomas damages his snowplough and gets stuck in a snowdrift.
1414"Thomas & Bertie"David MittonTank Engine Thomas Again
by Rev. W. Awdry		20 November 1984 (1984-11-20)
"Thomas and Bertie's Great Race"
Thomas meets a single-deck bus called Bertie, who reminds Thomas of the time he took his passengers after he got stuck in the snowdrift, and Terence came to pull him out; Bertie also challenges Thomas to a race to the next station.
1515"Tenders & Turntables"David MittonTroublesome Engines
by Rev. W. Awdry		27 November 1984 (1984-11-27)
Since Thomas has to work on his branch line, Henry, Gordon and James must shunt their own coaches, which makes them angry as they say tender engines never shunt. To make matters worse, Gordon and James both encounter turntable trouble, with Gordon unable to get perfectly balanced and being forced to pull his next train tender first, and James being spun round like a top due to high wind, leaving him dizzy and completely humiliated when Gordon witnesses it. Having had enough, soon, the tender engines decide to go on strike.
1616"Trouble in the Shed"David MittonTroublesome Engines
by Rev. W. Awdry		27 November 1984 (1984-11-27)
When the Fat Controller sees that Gordon, James and Henry have gone on strike, he brings in Edward to end it. But when he sees Edward being treated poorly, he buys a new saddle tank engine called Percy to help and shuts the three tender engines up in the sheds. Percy soon gets to work shunting coaches and handling Thomas' branch, while Edward and Thomas work together to run the main line.
1717"Percy Runs Away"David MittonTroublesome Engines
by Rev. W. Awdry		4 December 1984 (1984-12-04)
The Fat Controller allows the three tender engines to go back to their jobs and then lets Percy, Edward and Thomas take a break for a while. Percy is so cheeky that he becomes careless and forgets Edward's advice about the junction. Percy is so startled by the presence of Gordon that he reverses away quickly without his crew, but gets stuck in a bank of earth. Later, Gordon pulls Percy out of the bank while congratulating him for preventing a nasty accident.
1818"Coal"David MittonHenry the Green Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		4 December 1984 (1984-12-04)
"Henry's Special Coal"
Henry has been sick for some time and the Fat Controller is concerned about him. It turns out Henry's small firebox is unable to take the heat from the Island's coal and requires an expensive but special Welsh load. By using the Welsh coal, Henry's performance improves dramatically.
1919"The Flying Kipper"David MittonHenry the Green Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		11 December 1984 (1984-12-11)
Henry is chosen to pull an early morning fish train, dubbed "the Flying Kipper". Everything goes well until ice freezes the points from the main line into a siding and snow forces down a signal set at "Danger", leading Henry to collide with another goods train in the siding. The Fat Controller sends Henry to Crewe to get a new shape and a larger firebox, allowing him to use regular coal again and making him the engine he always deserved to be.
2020"Whistles & Sneezes"David MittonHenry the Green Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry
Based on Gordon's Whistle and Henry's Sneeze		11 December 1984 (1984-12-11)
Gordon is jealous that Henry has been rebuilt and complains that he whistles too much. Ironically, Gordon's whistle jams later on and he is unable to stop from whistling. The next day, some boys throw stones at Henry and break the coaches' windows. Henry's driver and fireman decide to pay the boys out by making Henry sneeze at them.
2121"Toby & the Stout Gentleman"David MittonToby the Tram Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		18 December 1984 (1984-12-18)
"Toby the Tram Engine"
Toby is a square tram engine who works on his own little line. He is happy there with his faithful coach Henrietta, who has seen better days, but soon he is quickly running out of work, being replaced by cars, lorries and buses. In the meantime, he is only carrying a few passengers and shunting a few trucks. Toby's line is about to be closed down for good when a letter comes for him.
2222"Thomas in Trouble"David MittonToby the Tram Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		18 December 1984 (1984-12-18)
"Thomas Breaks the Rules"
Thomas gets in trouble with a police constable for not having a cowcatcher or sideplates. When the Fat Controller hears about it, he buys Toby, who has both and brings Henrietta with him.
2323"Dirty Objects"David MittonToby the Tram Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		25 December 1984 (1984-12-25)
"James in a Mess"
Toby and Henrietta are enjoying their new life on the Island of Sodor, but James calls them "dirty objects" as they look old fashioned and need new paint. Later, James takes a goods train, but the trucks push him down Gordon's Hill so fast, that he crashes into some tar wagons. James is more dirty than hurt, but when Toby and Percy arrive to help him, Toby says that he looks more like the so-called "dirty object" now.
2424"Off the Rails"David MittonGordon the Big Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		8 January 1985 (1985-01-08)[citation needed]
"Gordon Takes a Dip"
One morning, Gordon is very difficult. He becomes the butt of Henry and Percy's jokes and refuses to pull a goods train. His plan to jam the turntable ends in failure when he slithers into a ditch. When the Fat Controller hears about this, he leaves Gordon there until later. At night, Gordon is finally pulled out of the ditch by James and Henry, but is now miserable and humiliated because of his actions.
2525"Down the Mine"David MittonGordon the Big Engine
by Rev. W. Awdry		8 January 1985 (1985-01-08)[citation needed]
After his ditch incident, Gordon is forced to pull trucks as his punishment. Thomas enjoys teasing him about it much to Annie and Clarabel's dismay, but while working at the lead mines shunting trucks, he falls into one after he takes no notice of a "Danger" sign. Gordon, now feeling sorry for Thomas, pulls him out.
2626"Thomas' Christmas Party"David MittonThomas' Christmas Party
by Rev. W. Awdry		25 December 1984 (1984-12-25)
Christmas arrives on the Island of Sodor. All the engines are busy with passengers and parcels, especially Thomas and Toby. Thomas likes it when he passes Mrs. Kyndley's house while working and she always waves to him. Thomas then goes to the shed to talk with the other engines about throwing a Christmas party for Mrs. Kyndley to thank her for saving them from an accident a year earlier.

Characters introduced

[edit]
Main article: List of Thomas & Friends characters

Home media

[edit]

United Kingdom

[edit]

Series 1 was first released as two separate VHS and Betamax volumes by Guild Home Video in 1985. They remain the only Thomas related products released on the latter format. The Video Collection later re-released them as three VHS volumes in 1986, and have seen numerous re-releases over the years.

Video Collection International released a complete series VHS set in 1998, available as either a single-VHS or double-VHS release. It was soon released on DVD in 2004 as part of the "Classic Collection Boxset" before being released on its own the following year. The 2012 re-release by HIT Entertainment uses the 2003 restoration of the series.

Episodes from the series have also made it to various compilation releases with other series.

United States

[edit]

Strand VCI Entertainment and Anchor Bay Entertainment have released Series 1 episodes on various VHS and DVD volumes.

In 2004, the complete series was released on DVD as part of a 3-disc boxset titled "The Early Years", featuring the original UK narrations and titles for the first time in the US.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Steve Asquith - 25 Years On The Model Unit". Sodor Island Fansite. 2010. Archived from the original on 2016-03-07.
  2. ^ Allcroft, Britt. "A Tribute to David Mitton". Archived from the original on 2012-02-05.
  3. ^ LaMarche, Lee (18 February 2024). "Why George Carlin Narrated Thomas the Tank Engine in the '90s". MovieWeb. Retrieved 31 July 2024.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Thomas_%26_Friends_series_1&oldid=1266711867"