Ed Welch (born in Oxford, England on October 22nd, 1947) is an English composer and songwriter. He took over as songwriter and song composer for Thomas & Friends beginning with the eighth series, replacing original composers Mike O'Donnell and Junior Campbell. He left the show after The Great Discovery, and Robert Hartshorne took his position for Hero of the Rails. He also provides the music for other children's shows, Jim Henson's Animal Show with Stinky and Jake, Mopatop's Shop, Jim Henson's Construction Site, The Hoobs, Funky Valley, Grizzly Tales For Gruesome Kids, The Dodo Club, Frootie Tooties, Wolves, Witches and Giants, Funky Town and Binka. Other credits include the BBC sitcom One Foot in the Grave and game shows Catchphrase, Blockbusters, and Knightmare.