LETTER:Well-trained

From Mr Charles Norrie

Sir: Surely Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends (Letters, 29 May) teach us not altruism but "altrailism"? His readers grow up with a recognition of the importance of railways, not begrudging the spending of their taxes on a sensible transport policy, oppose the closure of vital branch lines and wait not with impatience but expectation at automatic half-barrier level crossings.

Thomas was invited to take part at the inaugural parade celebrating Chelsea Clinton as Presidential daughter. When her generation come to power, will there not be a swing away from freeways and airports to railroads to transport America?

Yours sincerely,

CHARLES NORRIE

London, N1

30 May