I WAS most disappointed to hear that Lakeside have been denied a licence renewal by Mattel to use Thomas the Tank Engine branding on its popular Thomas the Tank Engine rides. My nephews have greatly enjoyed this Thomas-themed ride, as I am sure have many thousands of others.

I understand from your article that Mattel provided no explanation as to why the licence renewal was declined. It strikes me as hopeful that this terribly sad decision could be overturned by a campaign reaching the right ears at Mattel, as it is very easy to say no without thinking, but a little harder for a company to put in the work to say 'yes'.

There can be no harm to the Thomas & Friends brand by renewing, indeed the train promotes the brand to the thousands of happy customers each year. Surely there must be someone in the Mattel PR machine that can see that denying the licence is only going to result in negative press for Mattel, but by renewing it only positive synergies will follow, and embrace the opportunity to promote the brand locally that renewing the licence will provide..

I hope the Daily Echo establishes a campaign to raise awareness of this sad decision with the object of encouraging Mattel to think again.

Mr H

Highfield