Line closed for Fat Controller training

A popular Thomas the Tank Engine event has hit the buffers after its Fat Controller was ordered to undergo quality-control training.

Derek Robinson has successfully played the role on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway for more than 20 years. But the new owners of the rights to Thomas the Tank Engine events have ruled that he must attend a course on how to "achieve a high level of performance".



Mr Robinson, 56, a training consultant, said: "When I heard I had to go on a course to learn how to be the Fat Controller I thought it was a joke."

He described the new measures as "draconian" and although he considers it "ridiculous", he will eventually go on a Fat Controller's course.

Photo from here.