Since filming in 1983, a rediscovery and revived version of the pilot series of the animated children's Steam Train series Thomas and Friends narrated by Sir Ringo Starr.

The original test series, titled "Mine", will appear online on Friday, May 9, in line with the 80th anniversary of the famous Talking Tank Engine franchise.

Popular characters began his adventures in a book published in 1945, which was later adapted into a TV show, which ran from 1984 to 2021.

The recording of the 40-year-old original pilot – shot on 35mm film – has been digitally excavated and updated and will be viewed on YouTube at 18:00 BST.

The Beatles drummer Sir Ringo can be heard in the new shots, as well as the theme musical tunes of long-time series composer Mike O'Donnell have slightly different musical arrangements.

Ian McCue, the producer of the series that performed from 2010 to 2020, told BBC Radio 4's Show Today program on Friday that the team "stumbled upon "an old movie jar that had been stored and "had to be pieced together with great love and care."

"I think you can see that if they didn't do that (the pilot), they would have had teeth grinding problems," he explained.

“It was a very smart move to do this and make sure everything was good for them when they started Season 1.

"So it was obviously the smoke coming out from behind Thomas' panels, and I know, talking to some of the staff who worked on it, who had problems with the radio control equipment not being built through the actual engine mechanism."

He added: "But I think it's a lovely charm and innocence, and I think even the pilot, as a test piece, it still carries that cute, classic, timeless story, and the sound, everything is enjoyable."

Thomas first appeared on ITV and then went to Cartoon Network, Nick Jr, Channel 5, which is now available on Netflix.

McCaw attributes the program’s lasting popularity over time to its evolution while maintaining the theme of friendship and teamwork and aligning with trust in parents.

“It has built this amazing fanaticism over the years, but we’ve been thinking about the next generation of Thomas fans and keep it relevant to today,” he said.

“But we always remember the messages of themes, friendships, teamwork and communication and make sure they are just fun, wholesome adventures, and it’s a trustworthy show.

“I think parents actually like the fact that they can leave their kids to see Thomas without a doubt.”

Roberto Stanichi of toy company Mattel agrees that Thomas “brings joy to generations, sharing eternal stories and valuable lessons in life.”

“When we celebrate this big year, we unveiled the 40-year-old for the first time and unveiled new discoveries from the vault for the first time, providing long-time fans and new audiences with the opportunity to reconnect with friends from Thomas & Friends and New and Nostalgic,” he said.

The franchise will also be auctioned in the brand’s history to mark large birthday celebrations including artwork and props from the frozen landscape, which was first aired in 1984.

Collectors and fans will have the opportunity to bid for items signed by celebrities who have played the series for many years, including British actors Olivia Coleman, Eddie Redmayne and Hugh Bonneville.

Proceeds from the auction (now open registration) will be bidding starting on May 12 - will be donated to the National Autistic Society.