From my notes

We arrived at the station where I tried to buy a Day Rover, unlimited travel on both the electric train and the steam train. “It’s a special event” said the unshaven man at the counter. “I can do you a return to Ryde and you just get off at Smallbrook Junction.” I started to ask about the event but Anne interrupted. “So she’s got a ticket to Ryde?” The man nodded with a straight face and I found myself unable to ask questions as I tried not to laugh aloud. I got the tickets and we waited for the train.

As we bumped our way along the line, Anne went through the brochure, “Day Out with Thomas” – fun-packed day with the famous blue engine and his friends. Oh joy.