A first edition copy of the first book in the Thomas the Tank Engine series is due to be sold at auction alongside early versions of other children’s classics.
The Three Railway Engines, the first book in The Railway Series which introduced Thomas the Tank Engine, was published in 1946.
The picture book by Rev Wilbert Awdry introduces Edward, Gordon, and Henry who all live in the same shed and don’t get along until a series of adventures teaches them to be friends.
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The first edition up for auction is a hardback, yellow-covered picture book valued from £300 to £500.
The book is among 60 lots of children’s books going under the hammer this month. Others include an early Peter Rabbit book by Beatrix Potter, as well as Quentin Blake sketches of Roald Dahl’s BFG.
A spokesperson for Catherine Southon Auctioneers & Valuers said: “We are delighted to be auctioning part of a local collection of children’s books, many of which are signed by the author or illustrator, and have been lovingly cherished.”
The items will go on sale at Kingsley House in Chislehurst on September 17.
