Thomas's Surprise Journey

Thomas's Surprise Journey is a story written by Christopher Awdry and illustrated by Ken Stott for the Thomas Press-Out Model Station book.

Plot
Thomas has gone to work on Edward's branch line whilst a bridge is being repaired on the Ffarquhar branch, and Bertie is missing him. One summer morning he is sent out to take the annual Ffarquhar School outing, one if his favourite trips. Bertie collects the schoolchildren and takes them to the seaside, whilst on the way visiting a castle and having a picnic lunch on a farm.

At the beach the children and teachers are enjoying themselves while Bertie is parked close by, however one of the teachers starts feeling unwell. Luckily one of the other teachers is a nurse, and quickly says the teacher might have appendicitis. She says the teacher must be taken to hospital immediately, and they go to call an ambulance. Bertie's driver instead suggests that they take the teacher to Wellsworth Hospital themselves, as it would be quicker. When the Head Teacher asks about the children's journey home, Bertie's driver points out that Edward is due with a passenger train to Wellsworth soon, and they could take it and meet them at Wellsworth. They call to arrange an extra carriage for Edward's train, and Bertie leaves for the hospital.

The children reach the nearby station, and are surprised to see Thomas at the head of the train instead of Edward. Thomas explains that he and Edward swapped jobs so he could see the schoolchildren again, and they are all very excited. They climb into the extra carriage, and Thomas takes them to Wellsworth station, where he is pleased to see Bertie. Bertie informs everyone that the teacher is comfortable, and she will be fine. She will have to stay in the hospital for a few days, but will be able to go home soon. Thomas remarks that he will be able to come home soon as well, leaving Bertie pleased with a job well done, and eager to work with Thomas again.

Characters

 * Thomas
 * Bertie
 * Edward
 * The Fat Controller
 * Bertie's Driver

Locations

 * Ffarquhar School
 * Arlesburgh Castle
 * A Farm
 * Tidmouth Beach
 * Tidmouth
 * Wellsworth Hospital
 * Wellsworth

Trivia

 * This story is set during the events of Thomas and the Twins, specifically a week before Thomas returns to his branch line.

Goofs

 * Despite being a Railway Series story, the illustrations are drawn in the TV Series style, and as such Thomas has a curved footplate.
 * Tidmouth and Wellsworth stations are not accurate to any previous depiction.