Lost Thomas the Tank Engine pilot on YouTube
May 9, 2025
By Nik Roseveare
To celebrate the 80th anniversary of British children’s classic, Thomas & Friends, an original unseen version of the pilot episode will be available to watch for the first time ever – with narration by former member of The Beatles, Ringo Starr.
Having first captured the hearts and minds of the nation in 1945 when the first book was released, the show continues to entertain audiences worldwide with stories of friendship, adventure and teamwork.
The unseen footage from Down The Mine – the original 1983 pilot episode – is a celebration of the classic model series. The 40-year-old recording was lovingly crafted on 35mm film trims and has been pieced back together before being rebuilt and digitalised audibly and visibly. It provides a new look and feel to the episode which kickstarted it all.
Mike O’Donnell, the series composer between 1984-2003, has also crafted a bespoke musical arrangement to accompany the special episode. The voiceover from Starr will also contain previously unheard narration. Starr was the first of many notable storytellers to join the show, paving the way for future celebrity voices including the likes of Olivia Coleman, Eddie Redmayne and Hugh Bonneville.
“For 80 years, the Thomas & Friends brand has brought joy to generations, sharing timeless stories and valuable life lessons,” said Roberto Stanichi, executive vice president, Hot Wheels and Global Head of Vehicles & Building Sets at Mattel. “As we celebrate this momentous year, we’re unveiling 40-year-old footage and newly uncovered stories from the vault for the first time ever, offering longtime fans and new audiences the chance to reconnect with the beloved adventures of Thomas & Friends in new and nostalgic ways.”
The episode will go live at 6pm BST on the official Thomas & Friends YouTube channel on May 9th.
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