Thomas and Friends - Season 1

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 Rev. W. Awdry.

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.

Season 1 was originally narrated by Ringo Starr, however he and George Carlin have since re-narrated the episodes for American audiences.

Thomas and Gordon - UK (Thomas Gets Tricked - US)
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 the big engine name Gordon, and makes him angry. Thomas then fetches Gordon's coaches. But the big 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.


 * Introducing Thomas the Tank Engine and Gordon the Big Engine
 * Cameos by Henry (Not yet introduced), James (Not yet introduced) and The Fat Controller (Not yet introduced)
 * 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, 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' Halloween Adventures DVD 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, there's a camera stand 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.

Edward and Gordon - UK (Edward Helps Out - 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.


 * Introducing Edward the Blue Engine
 * Featuring Gordon and Troublesome Trucks(unnamed)
 * Cameos by Thomas, Percy (Not yet introduced), James (Still Not yet introduced) and 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 and the Breakdown Train'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 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 and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

The Sad Story of Henry - UK (Come Out Henry - US)
Henry, the green engine, 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.


 * Introducing Henry the Green Engine and The Fat Controller
 * Featuring Edward and Gordon
 * Cameos by Thomas, James (Still Not yet introduced) and Percy (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 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 Mr. Conductor's Thomas Tales episode, Paint the Town Red and on PBS KIDS Sprout.
 * This is the first story narrated by George Carlin in Mr. Conductor's Thomas Tales.

Edward, Gordon and Henry - UK (Henry to the Rescue - US)
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.


 * Featuring Gordon, Henry, Edward and The Fat Controller.
 * Cameo by James (Still Not yet introduced)
 * 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 the Tank Engine and Friends Season 1 collection
 * George Carlin narrates the US version of this episode on PBS KIDS Sprout.

Thomas' Train - UK (A Big Day for Thomas - 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.


 * Featuring Thomas, Henry and The Fat Controller.
 * Cameos by Edward, Gordon, James (Still Not yet introduced) and Percy (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, 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, the Best of Thomas video & DVD and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

Thomas and the Trucks - UK (Trouble for Thomas - US)
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.


 * Introducing Troublesome Trucks
 * Featuring Thomas, Edward and The Fat Controller
 * Cameos by Henry, Gordon and 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.
 * 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 Big Day for Thomas video, the Best of Thomas video & DVD and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

Thomas & the Breakdown Train - UK (Thomas Saves the Day - US)
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, Gordon, Troublesome Trucks and The Fat Controller
 * Cameos by Henry, Edward, Percy (Still Not yet introduced) and Annie and Clarabel (Not yet introduced)
 * This episode features the first accident in the series, although it is off-screen.
 * First time we hear Troublesome Trucks' theme & 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 ans 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 Best of Thomas video & DVD and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

James & the Coaches - UK (James Learns a Lesson - 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, Edward, Thomas and The Fat Controller
 * Cameo by Annie and Clarabel (Still Not yet introduced)
 * Gordon is mentioned by James.
 * 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 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 Best of James video & DVD and on PBS KIDS Sprout.
 * This is a part two version of introducing James.

Troublesome Trucks - UK (Foolish Freight Cars - 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 trucks 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 behave. James, now being a useful engine again, is very happy.

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.
 * Featuring James, Edward, Thomas, Rolling stocks (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)
 * Cameo by Percy (Still Not Yet Introduced)
 * 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 Thomas and his Friends Help Out video and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

James & the Express - UK (A Proud Day for James - 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, Gordon and The Fat Controller
 * Cameos by Henry 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 the Best of James video & DVD and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

Thomas and the Guard - UK (Thomas and the Conductor - 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, Henry and the Guard
 * The Fat Controller is mentioned by Ringo Starr and George Carlin.
 * 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 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 burst. 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, Annie and Clarabel, James and [[The Fat Controller
 * Cameos by Troublesome Trucks and Percy (Still Not Yet Introduced)
 * 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, 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, Terence and the Snow - UK (Terence the Tractor - 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 and Annie and Clarabel
 * Cameo by Bertie (Unnamed)
 * 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 & Terence's theme.
 * Ringo Starr narrates the US version of this episode on the James Learns a Lesson & Other Stories video, 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 Wonerland & Other Thomas Adventures video & DVD, 10 Years of Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends video and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

Thomas and Bertie - UK (Thomas and Bertie's Great Race - 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 and Annie and Clarabel
 * 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 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 10 Years of Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends video and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

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, James, Thomas, Henry and The Fat Controller
 * Cameo by Annie and Clarabel
 * Ringo Starr narrates the US version of this episode on the Tenders and Turntables & 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 and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

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, Edward, Gordon, Henry, James and The Fat Controller
 * Cameo by Annie and Clarabel
 * This is the first time Percy (or any 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 Turntables & 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 Thomas Comes to Breakfast video and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

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, Gordon, Edward, James, Henry, Troublesome Trucks and The Fat Controller.
 * Cameos by Thomas with 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, the Best of Percy video & DVD and on PBS KIDS Sprout.
 * When Percy's 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.

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, Thomas, James, and Sir Topham Hatt
 * Cameos by Percy, Edward, Annie and Clarabel and Troublesome Trucks
 * 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 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.

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.


 * Featuring Henry and The Fat Controller
 * Cameos by James and Gordon
 * Henry's first accident.
 * 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 Turntables & 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, the Thomas' Christmas Party & Other Favorite Stories video and on PBS KIDS Sprout.
 * When Henry flies off the track, he seems to be smiling

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, Gordon, Edward, Percy and [[The Fat Controller
 * Cameos by Thomas and James
 * This story is 'Gordon's Whistle' and 'Henry's Sneeze' from the Railway Series combined.
 * 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.
 * 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. If Ringo Starr did a US version of this episode on the Tenders and Turntables & Other Stories video
 * Gordon can be seen with Henry's face.
 * The model of Henry with the old shape is seen when Ringo Starr and George Carlin say "Trickety-trock, Trickety-trock," hummed his coaches.

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 cars. 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, Henrietta and [[People and animals (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)#The Fat Controller|The Fat Controller's family (Lady Hatt, Bridget and Stephen)
 * Featuring The Fat Controller
 * First time we hear Toby's theme.
 * Ringo Starr narrates the US version of this episode on the Tenders and Turntables & 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.

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 cannot 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, Toby, The Fat Controller, and Annie and Clarabel
 * Cameos by James, Henrietta and 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.

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 him, and James is embarrassed, especially when Toby teases James for being dirty himself.


 * Featuring James, Percy Toby, The Fat Controller and Troublesome Trucks
 * Cameo by Thomas
 * 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.
 * 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.

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 falls through 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, Edward, Henry, Percy, James and The Fat Controller
 * The Flying Kipper is mentioned by Gordon.
 * Gordon's first accident.
 * At 3:34-3:43, carefully look at a diesel engine (D4573) pulling along the rails (his shape is not seen but only two lights on him), he is not yet introduced.
 * 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 Thomas Comes to Breakfast video, the Best of Gordon video & DVD and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

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 trucks 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, Gordon, Annie and Clarabel and The Fat Controller
 * Cameos by James and Percy
 * Final appearance of the Old Coaches (to date).
 * First time we hear the accident theme.
 * 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 Thomas and His Friends Help Out video, the Thomas and His Friends Get Along video, the Best of Gordon video & DVD and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

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, Toby, Percy, Gordon, Henry, James, Edward, Terence, The Fat Controller, Mrs. Kyndley, Annie and Clarabel
 * Cameos by Henrietta and Bertie
 * Ringo Starr narrates the US version of this episode on the Shining Time Station special episode and video, '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, the Thomas' Snowy Surprise & Other Adventures video & DVD and on PBS KIDS Sprout.

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 (Thomas and Gordon)
 * Edward (Edward and Gordon)
 * Henry (The Sad Story of Henry)
 * Gordon (Thomas and Gordon)
 * James (Thomas and the Breakdown Train)
 * Percy (Trouble in the Shed)
 * Toby (Toby and the Stout Gentleman)
 * Bertie (Thomas and Bertie)
 * Terence (Thomas, Terence and the Snow)
 * The Fat Controller (The Sad Story of Henry)
 * Lady Hatt (Toby and the Stout Gentleman)
 * Stephen Hatt (Toby and the Stout Gentleman)
 * Bridget Hatt (Toby and the Stout Gentleman)
 * Mrs. Kyndley (Thomas' Christmas Party)
 * Annie and Clarabel (Thomas and the Guard)
 * Henrietta (Toby and the Stout Gentleman)
 * Troublesome Trucks (Thomas and the Trucks)
 * Green and Cream Express Coaches (Thomas and Gordon)
 * Old Coaches (Edward and Gordon)
 * Annie-and-Clarabel-coloured, faceless and nameless coaches (The Sad Story of Henry)
 * The Breakdown Train (Thomas and the Breakdown Train)
 * The Flying Kipper (The Flying Kipper)
 * Brake Van (Thomas and the Trucks)
 * Tar Tanker (Dirty Objects)
 * Milk Tanker (Thomas and the Breakdown Train)

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