Skarloey

Skarloey is the oldest engine currently on the North Western Railway and works on the Skarloey Railway.

Biography
Skarloey was built in Wales alongside his twin Talyllyn and his two brothers, Rheneas and Dolgoch(also twins). He was sent to Sodor soon after to construct the Crovan's Gate Railway. The Railway was later renamed after him for his outstanding work in its construction. Thanks to him, the project was completed nearly 4 months ahead of schedule.

A few months later, Skarloey's brother Rheneas arrived on the SR to assist the little engine with the work. The two worked happily together on their own for nearly 90 years before times became difficult. In the 1930's the Great Depression had a disastrous effect on the Skarloey Railway, but it thankfully remained open. The same can be said about the second world war. However, shortly after the war ended, Skarloey was withdrawn from regular service due to overworking himself, and Rheneas was left on his own. Skarloey could only watch as his brother slowly wore himself to bits until 1953 when Sir Handel and Peter Sam arrived. Skarloey watched in horror as his brother was brought by Peter Sam and lifted onto a flatbed after a nasty accident. He was taken to Crewe works and Skarloey was left with the two new engines.

Skarloey still had to remain in the sheds, and he didn't feel great about it. Even after a talk with Edward, Skarloey longed for the chance to stretch his wheels. He got his chance after Sir Handel had a small accident with some trucks. Skarloey begged and pleaded and Mr. Hugh reluctantly agreed to let him take Sir Handel's passenger train. This decision would ultimately be Skarloey's biggest mistake as he returned home exhausted and on one spring. He was also sent to the works, but only the ones on Sodor.

Skarloey returned in 1958 to find two new engines, Rusty and Duncan, working alongside Sir Handel and Peter Sam. He managed to take Rusty under his wing but had little control over Duncan. Duncan proved to be a hot-head engine with a reckless attitude that not even old Skarloey could control. However, Duncan did manage to change his ways slightly by 1959.

In 1959, Skarloey witnessed the devastating attacks carried out by Patrick Boomer and fell victim to Diesel 10's claw. When the Sir Bertram and Charles were trying to escape Diesel 10, they hid behind some trucks and Skarloey held his ground against Diesel 10. Unfortunately, he was no match for the giant diesel. Diesel 10 grabbed him and threw him off the rails, bending his boiler and denting his smokebox. Skarloey was left unconscious by this and once again taken to the works. His fate is unknown.

Personality
Skarloey is very driven and passionate about his work and will stop at nothing to ensure his passengers and clients are happy. Both he and Rheneas are resilient and don't let their weaknesses and disadvantages stop them. He cares very deeply for his brother, his friends, and his manager and will stop at nothing to protect them. His wisdom, bravery, and tenacity make him one of the most respected and valued engines in the entirety of Sodor.

Basis
Skarloey is based off of the Tayllyn Railway's Star Engine, Talyllyn himself.

Livery
Skarloey is painted in a dark red livery with yellow lining. His name is printed on his boiler in white lettering and his number is placed below his cab.

Appearances

 * Sodor Then and Now 1: A New Beginning (S1, E1)
 * Sodor Then and Now 2: He's Number One! (S1, E2) (Does Not Speak)
 * Sodor Then and Now 6: Little Engines (S1, E6) (Does Not Speak)
 * Sodor Then and Now 7: Old Faithful (S1, E7)
 * Sodor Then and Now 8: The Work Begins (Mentioned)
 * Sodor Then and Now 10: Boomer's Reign (S1, E10)

Trivia

 * Skarloey wasn't supposed to be the main character of "Old Faithful," but it was decided that he would be the main character in the second to last draft.
 * Skarloey's role in "A New Beginning" was supposed to be a lot larger
 * Skarloey was supposed to have a few lines of dialogue with Thomas in Episode 2.
 * Skarloey's model uses a different motor than his original. His motor is swapped with Ben's motor.