I tried posting this link yesterday, but it wouldn't "take" for some reason. Sorry if I sounded rude -- not intended!

"Puffing Billy" was the signature tune to the BBC radio Light Programme's Children's Favourites Saturday morning request show. and anyone over here over the age of 40 could whistle it for you!

I don't know if the Rev. Wilbert Awdrey's Engine Stories (Thomas the tank engine, etc.) were ever published in the States, but he always said that rhyme was his inspiration, when he started making up the tales for his (then) small son. All now sadly very commercialised.

Steve