THOUSANDS of youngsters were greeted by a host of colourful characters from Thomas the Tank Engine at Hampshire's Watercress Line.

Thomas the Tank Engine, Bulgy the bus, George the Steamroller and even the Fat Controller were at hand to keep the children entertained over the Easter weekend.

Excited kids piled onto the trains at Alresford, Ropley, Medstead and Four Marks and Alton for the short ride on their favourite characters.

The police man and the vicar also joined the characters to re-enact stories from the popular TV show while Mr Wizard conjured up a magic trick or two at Alton train station.