'Thomas The Tank Engine' to become a movie

HIT Entertainment will turn Rev. W.V Awdry's children's book creation Thomas The Tank Engine into a movie, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Shrek The Third writer Josh Klausner will pen the adaptation, which will follow the adventures of blue train Thomas and his friends Percy, Toby, Annie and the Fat Controller.

Julia Pistor, who is producing the project through HIT Movies, said: "Generations of children have grown up with the adventures of Thomas & Friends with its storytelling tradition, positive values, timeless lessons and rich train history. "

Klausner added: "Rev. Awdry's robust characters and stories continue to stand the test of time and I am excited to play a role in sending off Thomas and his friends on a new, exciting adventure."

The Thomas franchise is reportedly the world's most popular preschool property. A UK TV series was narrated by Ringo Starr, while Alec Baldwin voiced the US version and starred as Mr Conductor in the 2000 live-action movie Thomas And The Magic Railroad.