FAMILIES could meet the Fat Controller and take a ride on board Thomas the Tank Engine this weekend as the children's characters paid a visit to Oxfordshire to mark a special anniversary.

ALSO READ: The most inspirational women in Oxfordshire

They came all the way to Didcot Railway Centre from the fictional Island of Sodor to celebrate 75 years since the book series they star in was created.

Oxford Mail:

The first book in the Railway Series, which featured blue locomotive Thomas as its central character, was first published in 1945 by Reverend Wilbert Awdry.

Oxford Mail:

On Saturday and Sunday visitors could enjoy unlimited rides behind Thomas as he pulled Great Western Railway carriages.

ALSO READ: Take a look back at Cowley through the decades

There were also magic shows and classic stories brought to life with the Fat Controller.

Oxford Mail:

Elsewhere, the colourful ‘Professor Crump’could be seen clowning around the centre, while ‘Twistina and Twistopher’ made balloon models. Thomas and friends will return to Didcot in October.

Visit dayoutwiththomas.co.uk for tickets.