HIT Entertainment has kicked off its extensive The Year of the Great Discovery Thomas the Tank Engine promotion.

The rollout includes integrated partnerships across toys, books and live events and is marked by the release of the brand-new DVD special Thomas and Friends: The Great Discovery this fall.

HIT has also partnered with VUE cinemas for a special theatrical ‘blue carpet’ premiere at VUE Leicester Square in London and weekend of screenings across 40 VUE Cinemas across the UK next week.

During the premiere, young Thomas fans will be given the opportunity to meet The Fat Controller and participate in activities and attractions.

Children will also receive an exclusive goodie bag packed with licensed Thomas tie-in product including toy engines, DVD’s, books, stickers and special new look Thomas and Friends vanilla cake kits from Green’s (www.greenscakes.co.uk).