CHILDREN’S favourite Thomas the Tank Engine is back at the Watercress Line from Saturday, August 9.

 The fare price for a Day Out With Thomas, which runs from August 9-17, also includes an entire day's travel on the big steam trains that run up and down the whole line. Trains run approximately every 30 to 40 minutes from 9.45am until 4.40pm.

Children will also receive a free Thomas sticker and a Day Out With Thomas certificate.

There will also be the opportunity to ride with Thomas and his friends. At Ropley, join the Thomas carriage or Toad the Brake Van. There will also be free rides with Iron 'Arry at Alresford and with Diesel at Ropley.

Be sure to look out for Sir Topham Hatt, The Fat Controller and other characters like George the Steam Roller, The Policeman and Bulgy the Bus.

In addition, at Ropley there will be a free bouncy slide and Mr Wizard shows in the picnic area, free rides on the children's roundabout at Ropley Upper Level station and free story corner and daily story time at Ropley.

Have your face painted or a Thomas transfer put on your arm in the Imagination Station at Alresford, or enjoy any of the Thomas & Friends games and colouring activities in the station.

Fares are priced £18 for adults and £12 for children aged two to 16 years. A family ticket costs £54 and children under two years are free of charge.

Book online to receive your free gift or simply pay on the day.

Please note that Thomas gives rides at Ropley station. He does not pull any passenger trains.

Find out more online at watercressline.co.uk.