The Deputy Minister

The Deputy Minister arrived on Sodor to present the Fat Controller with an award for "Services to Transport". The Deputy Minister arrived on Spencer, who was so busy trying to get the minister to the station in time, that he caused confusion and was diverted onto a branch line. When they finally did arrive at Knapford, the Deputy Minister said he was not impressed and refused to travel home with Spencer. Throughout the day, the other engines all competed to be given the special job of taking the minister home. Due to all their rushing about, the engines caused a lot of trouble. The Fat Controller offered to lend the minister his car to get home, but Spencer said that he had learned from his mistakes and that he wanted a second chance. The minister agreed to give both Spencer and the railway a second chance. The minister returned to Sodor the next day and was impressed with what he saw while the engines worked normally. He then presented a special trophy to the Fat Controller.

The Deputy Minister lives on the Mainland and reads the Sodor Times newspaper. He can be firm at times, but can also be understanding.