SCHOOLCHILDREN got a glimpse behind the scenes of the 60th birthday celebrations for one of the nation's best loved characters yesterday (FRI).

Dozens of youngsters from Beaumont Hill School, in Darlington, paid a visit to the town's railway museum to get a look at Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends.

The North Road venue is hosting a range of activities today and tomorrow to mark Thomas's landmark anniversary.

The school pupils, who all have special needs, were greeted by the Fat Controller and treated to a ride on Thomas yesterday.

Lee Vasey, the borough council's leisure spokesman, said: "This was a great day out for the pupils of Beaumont Hill School. I know they will have enjoyed meeting Thomas and making his birthday even more special."

Members of the public can meet Thomas and his friends at the museum this weekend.

Visitors can also take a ride on Thomas, Bertie Bus or the museum's own miniature railway.

Art activities, fairground rides, story-telling and face painting will also be on offer.

Tickets for the event, which runs from 10am until 4pm each day, are £25 for a family, £5 per adult, £6 for children and children under-two go free.

The event is part of Darlington Festival '05, which is being presented by the borough council.