It is the first Great Waterton festival and Toby is to lead the parade. Thomas is delighted for his friend, so when Sir Topham Hatt introduces Thomas to Flora, a new steam tram to Sodor, and tells them that Flora is to lead the parade with Toby, Thomas is worried. Thinking Toby will be upset Thomas sets about keeping Flora away from the festival by taking her on all his work errands. Axles aching, Flora runs out of coal just as Toby comes searching for them. Toby is very happy to meet Flora, as he was scared of leading the parade on his own! Thomas realizes he shouldn't have interfered and gives Flora some of his coal so the two trams can set off for the festival. It's winter on the Island of Sodor and James is showing all the engines how he knows best. When Hector suggests checking the weather with the Yard Manager before they leave, James doesn't want to listen -- especially to a truck! James chuffs on ignoring Hector's advice. Taking a wrong turn because of the snow they get trapped behind a snow drift. James realizes he should have listened to Hector and asks him what he thinks they should do. James learns that you can always rely on a good truck and a good friend.