The railway really came to life for children at Swindon's STEAM museum when Thomas the Tank Engine chugged in for a special visit.

He was joined by his friends Trevor the Traction Engine and the Fat Controller and proved a huge hit with his young fans.

They were able to listen to stories about the train's adventures, take part in a competition and watch Thomas videos.

Thomas also met Hilary Fortnam, the daughter of his creator Wilbert Awdry, who was invited to join in the fun on Saturday and Sunday.

The train has strong links with Wiltshire because Mrs Fortnam lives in Highworth and her father's stories were inspired by trains going past his home in Box near Chippenham.

She said he would have been proud to know so many people still enjoy his tales.

"It is lovely to see Thomas in Swindon and that he is still so popular even though steam trains are something little children don't know much about," she said.

"I think Thomas' appeal lies in the way dad wrote the stories. They are not fantasy they are real. Thomas is cheeky and has adventures.

"They also have a moral to them which I think is still relevant today."

Youngsters at the museum agreed with her.

"I am having a great time here. I really like Thomas. I watch him on the television all the time," said four-year-old Robert Milsom from Abbey Meads.

Another young fan, 10-year-old Liam Moyles from Ashton Brake near Abbey Meads, said: "He is really impressive because he is so big. It was nice to meet the Fat Controller and shake his hand."

The event was hailed a huge success by its organisers.

Emma Valentine, STEAM spokeswoman, said: "The rest of the museum is interactive and appeals to children but it is probably more for those aged six and over. Thomas really appeals to the under-fives.

"He was really quite magical for the children and very real to them. They had a wonderful time and so many turned up."