The Titfield Thunderbolt: Based on the Original Ealing Comedy by T.E.B. Clarke

This play is adapted by Philip Goulding from the classic "1953 Ealing" comedy film about a group of villagers who, finding that their branch railway line is about to be axed, decide to buy and run the railway themselves. As well as convincing the railway authorities that they are competent to work the line, they have to face problems from Vernon Crump who is set on providing a competitive bus service. The large cast can be doubled and the special effects required - steam engines, a bus and a steam roller to name but three! - can be achieved in several suggested ways.