Prior to going into detail about Scruff, a little of our own "Thomas" history... As first time grandparents, my husband and I wanted to start some type of collection for our grandson that he could possibly pass along to his own kids one day. Our grandson was 2 1/2 at the time, and had been talking a lot about a certain train named Thomas (a little fella whom - now seems hard to believe! - we'd never heard of.) After doing some research, it seemed the Take-n-Play line might be the perfect investment to engage and encourage his active imagination, as well as provide a fun way for us to interact with him. What a rewarding decision... we've had SO much fun together with this quality line of trains, vehicles and playsets! As he approaches 4, a large portion of our basement has become a wonderful Sodor land of make believe that we all enjoy visiting - and continues to hold his interest, which is quite a feat given the tendency at that age to move in and out of toy phases so quickly!
Scruff ("The Scruncher"!) works with Whiff at the waste dump, and doesn't at all mind getting dirty! He's a boxy, lime green tank engine with dark green stripes, black cab roof, 4 matching lime green wheels, and gold nameplates on both sides of his tank. He first appeared in TV Season 14 (2010), Episode 16 ("Thomas and Scruff"), and on Take-n-Play's 2011 Collector Checklist. Fisher-Price's March 2012 MSRP is $6.00, and he's well worth it (I paid $$6.89 for my grandson's)! As of 12/11, Scruff is also available in the Scruff's Dirty Job 2-pack. You can pair Scruff up with Whiff, two cheerful fellows despite their jobs!