The Duke of Sussex has recorded a special message to introduce a special episode of Thomas & Friends which features the Queen and a young Prince of Wales as characters.
Thomas & Friends: The Royal Engine is part of the 75th anniversary celebrations of Thomas The Tank Engine, which was created by British clergyman the Reverand Wilbert Awdry as a storybook for his young son.
In his introduction — which was recorded in January before his move overseas with Meghan Markle — Prince Harry is seen sitting in an armchair, reading from a book about the train’s adventures.
“Thomas the Tank Engine has been a comforting, familiar face to so many families over the last 75 years – entertaining, educating and inspiring children on important issues through exciting stories and characters,” the royal says.
“I certainly have fond memories of growing up with Thomas & Friends and being transported to new places through his adventures.
“I am very proud to have been asked to take part in this special episode. I wish Thomas & Friends a very happy anniversary.”
Proof of Prince Harry’s attachment to the engine can also be seen in photos taken on his first day attending nursery in September 1987, where he is pictured carrying a Thomas the Tank Engine bag.
In the 22-minute special, Sir Topham Hatt has been invited to London by the Queen to receive an award for distinguished service to the railway, and a young Charles has asked that Thomas be the engine to bring him.
The 22-minute special also features a new train character, The Duchess of Loughborough, voiced by actor Rosamund Pike, whose role is to transport the royal family.
The Gone Girl star said it is an “absolute honour” to have the chance to appear in the show.
“I take it as a big responsibility to play Duchess who is a lovely, warm, bubbly sort of effervescent engine that I am incredibly drawn to because she is very anxious to get things right,” Pike added.
Chuck Scothon, global head of infant and preschool at toy company Mattel, said: “In this milestone 75th year, we are releasing more storytelling content than ever before to engage the next generation of fans.
“While families are spending more time at home, we are able to offer new content to enjoy together across videos, books, apps and through music and podcasts and are thrilled Harry, The Duke of Sussex is introducing this special.”
The special episode will be on Milkshake! on Channel 5 at 9.05am on 2 May and will stream on Netflix in the US on 1 May.
