Lightnews — Scholar-powered news

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Got a new desk today and it has shelves just the right size for a very specific set of books!

November 5, 2025 at 7:43 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

What a find! Found this yesterday and bought it with absolutely no hesitation.

October 20, 2025 at 9:40 AM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

If you see this, quote repost with your favourite Pokémon. (Wrong answers only)

October 17, 2025 at 12:33 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Eewww, imagine investing in that rubbish. If I find a way to switch this off on my videos (though I doubt there is) then I'll absolutely switch it off 😆

October 11, 2025 at 10:06 AM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

"That’s why they call me Super E.D.; I’m super at everything, whatever the weather!”

I've depicted Super E.D. as a BR Class 73 Electro-Diesel, versatile but significantly weaker without electrified rails. You can watch my adaptation of the Super E.D. story on YouTube, which is free to use!

The mainland's answer to James. E.D. (or 'Super E.D.' as he calls himself) is a vain BR Class 73 Electro-Diesel. Here he waits one stormy day at Kirk Ronan station with a stolen express service.

October 10, 2025 at 2:05 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

#TAFcollab2025

Neil of Fortune

Rusty gets frustrated at the thought of the Bluebell valley line closing when Stepney returns to the mainland. While searching for another engine to run the line, he finds someone many thought was lost to time...

Happy 41st Thomas and Friends!

(story in alts)

“It’s not fair,” complained Rusty. “I do love a good run through the bluebell valley at springtime. But Stepney’s gone home, you see. The line will close without him for sure!”
“It’s no use getting grouchy about it.” said Skarloey. “Being a crosspatch will get you nowhere, it never did for me when I was a young engine.”
The little engine thought back to long ago.
“It’s a shame Neil isn’t around these days. I’m sure he would love to run that line. He’s not very strong you see, not like the big engines we see. He was taken out of service years ago, bless his soul.”

So off they set, past the bleak and brooding line of diesels. They soon realised that the box shaped engine letting off steam was not a diesel. All eyes glared at the little engines.
“Where is he going?” the diesels hissed.
“Just down the line!” gulped Rusty.
The diesels took his word and their growls subsided. Rusty quickly guided Neil out of the yard, leaving an eerie chorus of engines purring contentedly in their wake.
“We’ve done it!” cried Neil through exhausted puffs.

When Skarloey opened his eyes he was amazed!
“Well bless my soul!” he exclaimed. “If it isn’t Neil!”
“I wouldnae be here if not for yer wee friend.” said Neil.
Skarloey looked at the little diesel.
“You never,”
“I did!” grinned Rusty. “Neil will be perfect for the Bluebell valley.”
“You lucky old engine!” chuckled Skarloey. “Fancy being saved so long after retirement.”
The manager arrived to see what all the commotion was about. He was delighted to see Neil and promised his immediate restoration.

October 9, 2025 at 4:35 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Till the next time, York!

If you get the chance do check out the National Railway Museum!

September 27, 2025 at 5:46 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

To the railway museum!

September 27, 2025 at 10:35 AM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Saw Emily today, she says hi!

August 30, 2025 at 2:12 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

With the Class 66 being among my favourites in terms of modern locomotives, I'm glad they get official acknowledgement as Sodor running engines.

August 16, 2025 at 2:41 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

So a rare moment of Doctor Who talk on here. Got this fella from Eve of the Daleks today. Love the idea of the Executioner squad having a unique colour scheme and fair play it does look nice but this is the first time I feel they really missed the mark with the History sets.

August 15, 2025 at 7:41 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Took a break from the vlog to get some practice in. Edward is one I've struggled with this year so he was on my list. Pretty happy with this one!

#ttteart #edwardtheblueengine #thomasandfriends #train #trainsketch

July 27, 2025 at 9:27 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Now that I'm back from Wales, I can start editing the vlog for this year's Extravaganza. Here's a few photos, many more to be posted soon!

July 26, 2025 at 12:42 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Another practice sketch, inspired by (but not intended to be) the scene from Old Iron.

#thomasandfriends #ttte #thomasthetankengine #thomasandfriendsart #ttteart

July 23, 2025 at 6:10 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Day 1 of Awdry done! Was only there for a few hours due to travelling but am about for the full Saturday and Sunday 😁

July 18, 2025 at 10:16 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Getting some sketchbook sessions in. It's always the chassis that gives me trouble but hopefully not anymore in a week's time 🤞

July 17, 2025 at 9:04 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Thomas fans at Tywyn Wharf this weekend:

July 17, 2025 at 5:21 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Starting to prepare for the Extravaganza so it's time to get these out! I'll be in the usual flat caps but also keep an eye out for these shirts! Dolgoch on Friday and then Thomas for Saturday and Sunday. If you spot me feel free to come say hi!

July 15, 2025 at 10:29 AM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

25 years of Magic Railraod! I think something's wrong with my copy though...

July 14, 2025 at 9:58 AM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Was going to save this announcement until after Awdry Extravaganza but nope, here it is now. A sequel to the Thomas special is being developed! Any guesses for which book is getting adapted?

July 12, 2025 at 8:54 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

He was a boy, she was an LNER Peppercorn Class A1 steam locomotive. Can I make it any more obvious?

July 12, 2025 at 4:23 PM

Mechanical Shed

@mechanicalshed.bsky.social

Reopening print sales for those going to Awdry Extravaganza 5! As this second batch is limited to 1 of each, it's first come first serve! If you're after any of these just let me know which letter and the prints will be handed to you personally in Tywyn. Orders will close July 17th!