The Great Little Trains of Wales has welcomed a new addition to its family, becoming a thirteen-member strong association with the inclusion of The Merioneth and Llantisilly Rail Traction Company Limited, featuring the beloved Ivor the Engine.

The Great Little Trains of Wales unite the finest narrow gauge railways in Wales, collaborating to enhance railway tourism across Wales and globally.

Today, 26 September 2024, they welcome Wales’ beloved locomotive, Ivor, and The Merioneth and Llantisilly Rail Traction Company Limited as their esteemed thirteenth member of the association.

The release of the paperback edition of Ivor the Engine aligns with the original book’s first publication in 1962.

This event marks an exciting moment, following the successful rights acquisition by Cardiff’s Candy Jar Books, to revive this beloved Welsh classic for new generations.

Candy Jar is dedicated to preserving and sharing beloved stories, and its goal is to bring Ivor the Engine to a new generation.

They ensure that the enchantment of Ivor’s journeys remains impactful for both new young readers and those who cherish the original stories.

Partnering with the exceptional network of narrow-gauge railways, which operate in some of Wales’ most picturesque areas, is a perfect match.

“We are delighted to be able to welcome the Merioneth and Llantisilly railway as our thirteenth honorary member for the launch of the newly reprinted Ivor book. The story is so well known throughout all railways, it seems a very fitting way to welcome Ivor and launch the reprinted book”

James Brett, Chairman of GLTW

Authored by Oliver Postgate and visualized by Peter Firmin, the delightful tales of Ivor have been a mainstay on children’s television for generations.

They follow the adventures of Ivor the steam engine as he travels between the Welsh mining villages situated in the picturesque “top-left hand corner of Wales.” 

“I’m thrilled that Ivor is joining the Great Little Trains family. My father and his partner, Peter Firmin, set the standard for storytelling, and I believe that families – children, parents, grandparents, and train lovers – will embrace Ivor’s delightful return.”

Daniel Postgate, son of Ivor’s creator Oliver Postgate

In celebration of the book’s release and Ivor’s collaboration, every railway has received a complimentary copy of the new paperback edition.

You can purchase a copy of the book by clicking here.

Embracing the spirit of sharing Ivor’s enchanting tales, each railway will uniquely pass the book forward, bestowing it upon someone who would cherish the warmth of Ivor’s stories.

The Books Council of Wales is distributing books that are available in all reputable bookshops, including several gift shops at GLTW member railways, thus ensuring the enduring legacy of Ivor.

It was also announced earlier this month that model company Rapido would be making 00 gauge ready to run models of Ivor the Engine, giving fans more enjoyment and potentially giving them the chance to act out their favourite stories.

Celebrate the new adventures of Ivor and the Great Little Trains of Wales by sharing your moments with the hashtag #IvortheEngine.