Derek (Thomas and Friends)

   Model Series=   Derek    Derek is a diesel who is known for his initial "teething" troubles.
 * Class: BR Class 17
 * Designer: Clayton Equipment Company
 * Builder: Clayton Equipment Company or Beyer, Peacock & Co.
 * Built: sometime between 1962 and 1965
 * Configuration: Bo-Bo
 * Top Speed: 60 mph

Bio
Sir Topham Hatt realised Bill and Ben needed help and sent for Derek, but Derek's cooling system overheated on Gordon's Hill and BoCo had to come to the rescue. The news of the rescue went through the North Western Railway's rumour mill in due course, until a confused Percy informed Bill and Ben that Derek had a toothache. Bill and Ben were apprehensive of Derek as a result, but forgot their fear when Derek's cooling system overheated yet again and they had to help him home. Derek was then sent to the Works to be mended.

Derek returned later in Calling All Engines!, pulling a goods train up Gordon's Hill. According to the official website, Derek now spends most of his time at the quarries and clay mines near Brendam Docks working with Bill and Ben.

Persona
Derek is a jolly, enthusiastic diesel engine, who was brought in to assist Bill, Ben, and BoCo at the China Clay quarry. Unfortunately, due to his engine, he is highly prone to teething troubles, namely overheating and suffering frequent breakdowns, for which he is apologetic for the inconvenience. As a result, he spends many a day having his engine tended to. But Derek is a likeable chap and even Bill and Ben decided that they liked him due to his friendly nature. Derek has an infectious charisma, is keen to help anyone around him, and has a passion for sorting things out in a jiffy - if his cooling system lets him.

Basis
Derek is based on a BR Class 17, a Clayton and Beyer-Peacock Diesel-electric Type 1. One Class 17 survives in preservation.

Livery
Derek is painted in the British Railways green livery with yellow warning panels. His window frames are lined white and he has the BR logo on his sides.

Television series

 * Season 5 - Double Teething Troubles (not named)

Specials:
 * Calling All Engines! (Music Video cameo)