All three kids, especially Benjamin, are huge fans of Thomas. In fact, I’m a huge fan of Thomas; I loved it as a child and it’s one of the few kids TV programmes I can tolerate now.  We’ve got a fair few Thomas toys in the house, and have reviewed items from the Trackmaster range in the past – you can check out the review of the Demolition at the Docks set by clicking here.

They were super excited when a brand new Trackmaster set rocked up at our door. This one is particularly exciting because it is inspired by the new ‘Journey Beyond Sodor’ film, which is released today (25th August) in cinemas and out on DVD on 16th October – one to add to the Christmas list, maybe?

So, onto the toy. It’s easy enough to put together, although that’s something I always leave to Graham. I don’t like train sets that are too complicated to put together because they often lose interest whilst it’s been built. Once it’s put together, you need to pop a couple of AAA batteries (not included) into the motorised steelworks Thomas engine, switch him on and off he goes.

Thomas whizzes around the track transporting cogs. He goes over a cable bridge and the cogs drop into his cargo car. Further on around the track, a mechanical arm reaches in and grabs the cog. I’ve always said that I don’t think Trackmaster toys don’t offer a massive amount of play value – the children don’t have to do much at all, just watch it go around – and I stand by that with this one. However, it doesn’t stop the kids enjoying it and having fun. Benjamin, in particular, loved watching the things moving and lifting and grabbing, although he was very frustrated with the ‘dirty’ Thomas!

The set is sold in Smyths and retails at £39.99. It can be used in conjunction with the other Thomas & Friends Trackmaster sets and expansion packs, which is always a good idea.

*We were sent this product free of charge for the purpose of this review. All words and opinions are our own.