More Limited Editions..

 

A number of Limited Edition Bachmann '00' locomotives have been released to their commissioning retailers in time for Christmas including:

 

 

 

More to follow - watch this space!

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Hornby Latest...

 

With Christmas rapidly approaching, a raft of new releases are heading our way from Hornby. Models soon to arrive include, BR Schools Class 4-4-0  'Winchester' in BR Green, BR Schools Class 4-4-0 'St Pauls' in BR Black with DCC Sound, BR West Country 4-6-2 'Blandford Forum' , GWR & BR  2800 Class 2-8-0's, GWR  3800 Class 2-8-0, The Imperial Airways Train Pack, Days of Red & Gold Train Pack, Fireworks at Chilcompton Train Pack , East Midlands Trains and Cross Country HST Power Car Packs ...and more...

 

However, due to manufacturing difficulities, outlined to us today (8/12) by Hornby's Marketing Manager, Simon Kohler at the annual Press Briefing for the new 2011 Hornby Range, a number of models planned for release in 2010 have had to be pushed into 2011 - and a revised timetable has been released as shown below. A backlog of product has occurred following the modernising of infrastructure and computer systems at the main manufacturing site in China. Delays are now being reduced and schedules will improve over coming months:

 

Item               Description                                                 Due Date

BL99053    0-4-0 Peckett Industrial 'Wenman'                   Feb
BL99063    0-4-0 Peckett Industrial 'Joseph'                      Feb
BL99075    12 Ton Ventilated Van - NE                              Feb
BL99076    12 Ton Ventilated Van - LMS                           Feb
BL99077    12 Ton Ventilated Van - SR                              Feb
R2848/X     GWR 4-6-0 'Tintagel' Castle Class                 March
R2900XS    Railfreight Class 32 with DCC Sound            Feb
R2906        'Rare Bird' Train Pack - Ltd Edt of 1000         Feb
R2920/X     LNER 4-6-0 Sandringham B17/1 Class         May
R2921/X     BR 4-6-0 'THORPE HALL' B17/2                   March
R2922/X     BR 4-6-0 'GRIMSBY TOWN' B17/6                March
R2927         BR (EX-LMS) 0-4-0ST 0F 'PUG' '611'          Feb
R2946/X     BR Class 423 VEP - 4 ar Unit                         April
R2947/X     NSE Class 423 VEP - 4 Car Unit                   April
R2953         Flying Scotsman USA Tour 1969 Pack         Feb
R2955         Virgin Charter Relief EWS 90 & DVT pack  Feb
R2962/X     BR Railfreight Class 56 'Oystermouth'           Feb
R2963/X     Regional Railways Class 33                           May
R2965         LNER "Silver Link" A4 75th Anniversary       Feb
R2966         BR  "Brown Jack" A3 (non-Corr Tender)      April
R2967         BR (Late) Merchant Navy                                Feb
R2975         Collectors Centre BR Britannia Class           Feb
R2977XS    BR Green Class 08 Shunter  DCC Sound   Feb
R4439         Grand Central Mk 3 Buffet                              Feb
R4451         Pullman SR Bogie Luggage Van                   March
R6466         OTA Timber Wagon 110292 PARALLEL    March
R6467         OTA Timber Wagon 110209 PARALLEL    March
R6468         OTA Timber Wagon 110201 PARALLEL    March
R6469         OTA Timber Wagon 112317 TAPERED     March
R6470         OTA Timber Wagon 112182 TAPERED     March
R6471         OTA Timber Wagon 112338 TAPERED     March
R6484         KFA Container Wagon No.1                          March
R6485         KFA Container Wagon No.2                          March
R6486         PGA 3 Pack Weathered Wagons                 March
R7111         Shell BP Scammell Tanker                            Feb
R8012         HM 2000 Controller                                         March

 

With the above items now scheduled for a 2011 release, this will be reflected in the plans for the Hornby range for next year, which is due to be unveiled on Christmas Day. Detail is embargoed until then but, prepare for some surprises!

 

www.hornby.com  (updated 10/12/10) 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

7-Up from Graham Farish!

 

A significant achievement was realised last weekend for N gauge manufacturer Graham Farish.

 

The release of the B1 Class 4-6-0 steam loco and the DP1 Prototype Deltic diesel loco at the Warley National Model Railway Exhibition at the weekend (20/21 Nov) brings the total of new locomotive and multiple unit releases during the year to a 'Magificent Seven'!

 

It reinforces the commitment by the team at Bachmann to ensure that Graham Farish retains it's position as the leading supplier of British outline N scale locomotives, rolling stock and accessories. 

 

Graham Farish first revealed it was to enter the N scale arena back in the November 1970 issue of the former Model Railway News magazine, and quickly emerged as the No 1 supplier of British N scale ready-to-run products - a position it has held ever since.

 

Graham Farish became part of Bachmann Europe Plc in 2000 and since then the  company has invested  in many new developments and will continue to do so over the coming years.

 

Graham Hubbard, Managing Director of Bachmann Europe Plc said today, "Graham Farish is the established brand name in N scale British Outline model railways and the release of seven items of motive power in one year by the Bachmann team is a magnificent achievement."

 

During 2010 Graham Farish has released the following new models:

 

  1. LMS Black 5 4-6-0 (April)
  2. 3-Car Class 108 DMU (new centre car tooling - May) and Power Twin versions (November)
  3. BR Standard 4MT 2-6-0 (May)
  4. BR Standard 82xxx 2-6-2T (July)
  5. BR Class 14 diesel (October)
  6. LNER B1 Class 4-6-0 (November)
  7. DP1 Deltic Prototype diesel (November)

 

Graham continued, "locomotives have not been the only area to which new items have been added during the 40th Anniversary year. We've released many new wagons, completely retooled four types of Mk1 coaches plus the TPO vehicle, added new Scenecraft building, track and accessories. There are many exciting new developments planned for 2011 and beyond."

 

www.bachmann.co.uk  (24/11/2010)

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

          Heljan at Warley  

 

Danish manufacturer Heljan took the opportunity of the Warley National Model Railway Exhibition in Birmingham to unveil progress so far on a number of forthcoming models, as well as announcing some exciting new products too!

 

Of the 'work in progress', examples of the forthcoming '00' models of 'Lion', the Baby Deltic with 4-panel headcode, Hattons' exclusive Class 28 Met-Vick, the railbuses etc were on display showing varying levels of completeness.

 

In '0' gauge, models of the forthcoming Class 26, Class 33 and Class 55 'Deltic' locos were on display.

 

In addition, Heljan announced a number of new models for release in 2011/12 including:

 

  • Class 128 DPU railcar in Green, Blue & Royal Mail red liveries (00)
  • Class 31 Diesel loco (0)
  • Mk 1 BG in Blue/Grey, Crim/Cream, Maroon liveries (0)
  • Mk 1 GUV in Blue, Green, Crim/Cream & Maroon liveries (0)

 

A new catalogue detailing these and existing releases is now available.

 

(20/11/10)

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Dapol's Warley Announcements

 

Dapol announced a number of new models at the Warley exhibition at the NEC this weekend, as well as displaying EP shots of a number of forthcoming models.

 

For '00' modellers there were painted samples of the Class 22 Diesel loco, which were on display at Dapol's stand in various liveries. These models were the first EP samples, painted specially for the show. A weathered example was also announced on the Kernow Models stand at the show, with a painted example on display in their Limited Editions' cabinet.

 

For 'N' gauge modellers examples of the forthcoming HST power cars were on display, painted in all planned liveries, including Grand Central...and very colourful they were too. A note next to the bodyshells explained that a modification was being carried out to ensure the motor could not be seen through the power car windows. In addition examples of the Class 121 single car DMU and Class 142 'Pacer' in primer were also on display. A Class 86 in Network SouthEast livery was also on show.

 

In the Dapol shop, exclusive 'weathered' versions of the recently released '00' Megafret wagons were on sale.

 

The opportunity was also taken to announce more new releases for both '00' and 'N' gauge modellers - the highlights being:

 

  • Class 21/29 Diesel loco in '00'
  • DP2 Diesel loco in '00'
  • Overhead pantographs in N & 00. These will be produced in plastic and will be at a set height to match Dapol's Catenary & wires (which are currently at the testing stage). These items will include all the relevant insulators etc.
  • 'H'-frame gantry kit in '00' gauge. This will cover 2/3/4 tracks and allow you to include 'missing track' versions!

 

Finally, Dapol released a statement regarding the 10000 & 10001 '00' gauge project, which is included, in full, below:

 

"Dapol regret to announce the slight delay in the unveiling of the previously announced '00' gauge locomotive project for Hattons Model Railways.

 

This model was due to be unveiled in 'first shot' form at Warley 2010, but due to new information and photographs coming to light, we have realised that there are far more body variants to these 2 models than at first thought.

 

We have found that apart from the slight alternate bogie design and front ends (and variants thereof) there are 12 different combinations of body side and roof that will, for completeness, need to be accounted for in the tooling.

 

To produce all the variants in 1 tooling would mean too many slides, that would subsequently weaken the tooling and possibly cause unnecessary and unwanted mould lines.

 

Therefore, to produce the tooling with these possible faults would be folly, and Dapol have decided, in consultation with Hattons, to delay the release temporarily to alter and, in places, duplicate the tooling.

 

The new motor for this project is the same as the Dapol Class 22, and has passed all tests with flying colours, and is in full production ready for insertion in the 10000 loco.

 

Also, we have used the time to re-design the DCC speaker housing, and this will now take the biggest speaker with it's own sealed enclosure currently available."

 

(20/11/10)

 

 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Other Warley Highlights

 

The annual pilgrimmage to the NEC Warley show did not disappoint this year. In addition to a superb selection of model railway layouts and vast array of trade, the manufacturers had plenty of new projects on display.

 

In addition to those mentioned above, the following 'highlights' were on display around the show:

 

  • Model Rail's Sentinel (00) - Model Rail Stand
  • Class 150 DMU - Scotrail livery (00) - Model Rail Stand
  • Mk 2 DRS Escort Coaches (00) - Model Rail Stand
  • Mk 2 Network Rail Coach yellow livery (00) - Model Rail Stand
  • Class 20 DRS livery (00)- Model Rail Stand
  • FLA Freightliner wagon (00) - RealTrack Models Stand
  • Silver-Bullet China Clay wagons in part weathered livery (00) - Kernow Models Stand
  • 10000 / 10001 Diesel locos in grey primer  (00) - Bachmann Stand
  • Class 70 Diesel in Freightliner livery (00) - Bachmann Stand
  • Class 416 2-EPB EMU in Blue Grey (00) - Bachmann Stand
  • Class 416 2-EPB EMU in Green (00) - Bachmann Stand
  • Class 416 2-EPB EMU in Blue (00) - Bachmann Stand
  • Class 416 2-EPB EMU in Green (SYE) (00) - Lord & Butler Stand
  • Prototype Deltic DP1 (N) - Bachmann Stand
  • Class 101 2-Car DMU in grey plastic (N) - Bachmann Stand
  • Class 03 Diesel in grey/black plastic (N) - Bachmann Stand
  • Class 423 4-VEP EMU in black plastic (with motor) (00) - Hornby Stand
  • OTA Timber wagons EWS & light blue liveries (00) - Hornby Stand
  • KFA Container wagon in Tiphook Rail blue (00) - Hornby Stand
  • Flying Scotsman bodyshell with American style cow-catcher (00)- Hornby Stand
  • New low-profile motorised chassis suitable for EMU/DMU use (00) (Replica Railways) 
  • Class 47 'Isambard Kingdom Brunel' GW150 Green (00) - ViTrains Stand
  • Class 37 37 178 RFd livery (00) - ViTrains Stand
  • Mk2 DBSO coaches - Network Rail & Anglia liveries (00) - Silver Fox Stand
  • Gatwick GLV coach in Gat Ex livery (00) - Silver Fox Stand
  • Network Rail GLV coach in Network Rail Yellow livery (00) - Silver Fox Stand

....and much more! Despite the economy worries, model railways appears 'alive & well' in 2010!

 

(20/11/10)

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Railway Modeller goes 'Annual'!

 

Following in the footsteps of British Railway Modelling and Hornby Magazine, the Railway Modeller is dipping it's toe in the 'Annual' market!

 

This week sees the publication of a new venture for the RM's editorial team, the Railway Modeller Annual 2011. As well as following the RM's usual inspiring style, a diverse range of topics is covered, including how to photograph your layout , eras & epochs explained, where & how to build a layout and some truly stunning layouts amongst it's 124 full colour pages!

 

The Annual is published on Thursday 18th November and will be available from  model shops as well as selected independent newsagents and High Street WH Smith branches. Priced £6.99

 

(17/11/2010)

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  

 

More Modelzone Ltd Edt's

 

More Modelzone Limited Edition models have been announced by the retail chain. The following '00' scale models have been commissioned, and are expected during 2011:

  • Item 31-375Z  Bachmann 2-EPB Electric Multiple Unit in early BR Blue livery with small yellow warning panel , small BR logo and numbered as unit 5739. This 2-car unit will be limited to 512 models, and is priced at £117.99.
  • Item 34-500Z  Bachmann Bulleid Coach Pack. This coach pack will contain 3 Bachmann Bulleid coaches in BR Green livery, portraying Bulleid 3-Coach Set S768 and consisting of 2 BSK's (S3952S / S3953S) with end numbers (S768) and a CK (S5880S). Limited to 512 packs, and priced at £71.99 per pack.
  • Item 32-050Z  Bachmann BR Class 42 Warship loco in BR Green. This loco will be numbered as D808 'Centaur' with full yellow front as based at Plymouth Laira (84A).
  • Item 38-095Z  Bachmann pair of weathered RAILTRACK PNA wagons. The pack will contain 2 x 34T 5 Rib wagons, nos 3653 & 3680. Limited to 504 packs, and priced at £21.99 per pack of 2 wagons.
  • Item 38-160Z  Bachmann Set of 3 Condemned Vans. The pack will consist of 1 x BR 12T Planked Vent Van and 2 x 12T Plywood Vent Vans... all weathered and carrying 'cond' markings. Limited to 504 packs, and priced at £29.99 per 3-wagon pack.
  • Item 37-537Z  Bachmann 20T CAR Brake Van. This model represents the BR 20T Brake Van B954991 with 'New Cross Gate' markings. It will be weathered and limited to 504 pieces. Priced at £8.99 each.

 

In addition, the retailer has also announced the release of more 'N' gauge limited edition Graham Farish models. These will continue the Railway Technical Centre theme and follow the success of it's '00' equivalents in recent times. The latest announcements include:

 

  • Item 374-220Z  Farish RTC Pullman Car 'Wren' in RTC Red/Blue livery. Limited to 504 pieces and priced at £21.99 each.
  • Item 374-000Z  Farish pair of Mark 1 coaches in RTC Red/Blue livery. This pack will consist of Test Coach 5 and Lab 12, using the very latest Farish Mk 1 tooling. Limited to 504 packs and priced at £39.99 per pack.

 

(12/11/10)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bachmann Remembers...

 

Bachmann Europe has handed over a OO scale model of Patriot Class steam locomotive No. 45503 'The Royal Leicestershire Regiment' to a local museum.

 

 

The real locomotive was built by the London, Midland & Scottish Railway at Crewe in July 1932. It was named "The Leicestershire Regiment" in 1938 before being renamed the "The Royal Leicestershire Regiment" ten years later in November 1948. The locomotive was withdrawn in August 1961 and subsequently scrapped.

 

Graham Hubbard, Managing Director of Bachmann Europe Plc handed the locomotive over to "The Royal Leicestershire Regiment Museum" in Leicester appropriately on Remembrance Day. Graham said, "when we looked at producing models of the Patriot Class it was appropriate for us to produce a model with local connections. We are delighted to hand over this model to the Museum as a reminder to us all of the long and distinguished history of the famous 'Green Tigers'". The Regiment was amalgamated into the Royal Anglian Regiment in 1964."

 

(11/11/10)

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

David Ward (EM2 Society)

 

It is with sadness that we have learnt of the passing of David Ward.  Charlie Petty provides the following obituary:

 

"After a couple of years ill health and major surgery, David Ward died in Hospital in Holland on the 19th October. 

 

David was the founder of 'All things EM2' and thus his death last month has come as a shock to me and others, without David there would be no preserved EM2's in Britain today, without David there would have been no farewell rail tours in Holland, No naming of the last two operational locomotives 1502 ELECTRA & 1505 ARIADNE at Tilburg Works 24 years ago, without David we wouldn't have the EM2 Locomotive Society.

 

David had retired early from his job working for Nederlandse Spoorwegen Infrastructure (Dutch Railways) and had many plans, some of which he fulfilled, his last exercise was a 3 year photographic documentation of the rebuilding and quadrupling of his home station Houten, near Utrecht.

 

His Picasa Website was excellent, showing then & now shots taken by David over the years.

 

His involvement in the EM2 Story was critical, his aim was to get NS 1506 the Manchester Science Museum for permanent display, this plan went up in flames when the locomotive caught fire while being towed with her brakes on the year before, the standing locomotive NS 1505 Ariadne nearly didn't happen either when she was involved in a fatal collision with a car on a level crossing shortly afterwards, luckily the NS being short of rolling stock, repaired her. Evidence of this collision can be seen today at Manchester as her bodywork on one side was hurriedly patched up and filled before her repaint.

 

The EM2 Locomotive Society's best wishes go to his wife Margreet and his two daughters. 

 

Could we all say thanks to a nice guy who I liked and admired, he always made time for his hobby, he loved the Railways and he loved EM2's. 

 

Charlie Petty.  Chairman. The EM2 Locomotive Society." 

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Bachmann's Mini adventures..

 

Bachmann's new '00' gauge IPA Car Transporter is nearing completion and promises to be a stunning model. This highly-detailed model includes a wealth of exquisite elements such as etched hinged bridging plates, articulated axle boxes, close-coupling system, detailed underside equipment and the end ramps top deck can also be raised and lowered.

 

 

38-250 is in 'STVA' red livery (cars not included - available separately). RRP £30.25.

 

In addition, Bachmann has also unveiled a selection of new-style Mini's in the Scenecraft range, ideal for transporting on the new IPA!  Item No 44-533 is an 8-car pack and priced at £11.95.

 

 

More at www.bachmann.co.uk

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Hornby November Releases

 

Hornby's latest '00' gauge models slated for release during November have been announced. The following models are expected to be released to shops over the next few weeks:

 

  • R1139         Blue Rapier train set
  • R1144         The Night Mail train set
  • R2961         London 2012 train pack (ltd edt of 2012 packs)
  • R2901XS   50 037 'Illustrious' Large logo blue livery with DCC Sound
  • R2835/X     70010 'Owen Glendower' Britannia Class loco - late BR
  • R2957         GWR 0-4-0 Class 101 1835-2010 GWR 175 loco
  • R2913/X     67772 BR 2-6-4T Thompson L1 Class loco - BR black (early)
  • R2950         First Scotrail Class 156 2-Car DMU - Saltire livery
  • R4399         Wrexham & Shropshire Mk3 Coach pack (x3) - Blue/Grey
  • R4404         BR Hawksworth (pre 56) Gangway Passenger Brake Coach

 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

REALTRACK Models Update 

 

REALTRACK models' first '00' gauge model is currently on the high seas and heading for the UK. The company is hoping to have some of it's Freightliner-liveried FLA wagons available at the forthcoming Warley Model Railway Exhibition at the NEC on 20th/21st November.

 

The initial releases will be:

 

  • 7061-1   Freightliner FLA twin-set without containers (RRP £29.99)
  • 7061-2   Freightliner FLA twin-set with 2 x Maersk Containers (RRP £39.99)

 

For 2011, the following additional releases have just been announced:

 

  • Freightliner FLA 'empty' twin-set without containers
  • Freightliner FLA twin-set with 2 x Evergreen Hi-Cube 40ft containers

 

A number of minor modifications have been made prior to production which has added a slight delay to delivery times. These modifications include a larger boss on the bogie pivot to prevent 'rocking' on uneven trackwork, thickening of the spring retention spigot on the coupling mechanism, added weight to the chassis to enhance stability to the wagon and a modified box to enable both wagons to be packed away whilst permanently coupled to  each other.

 

Stockists who will have them shortly are:

 

Howes of Oxford, Durham Trains of Stanley, Darlington Railway Modelling (DRM), Kernow Model Railways, Arcadia Models (Oldham), Trains 4U (Peterborough), Bournemouth Model Railway Centre, East Somerset Models, Frizinghall Model Railways (Bradford), Keytes of Essex (Bowers Gifford), John Dutfield (Chelmsford), The Signalbox Anstey (Leicester), The Engine Shed (Leytonstone), JDM Models (Settle,N Yorkshire)

 

 

In addition, REALTRACK's next project, the Class 144 2-car DMU, is also progressing well. Final CAD/CAM images have been produced and an impressive model is on the cards, features include:

 

  • 5 pole motor
  • low-profile gearbox and gear train
  • DCC Ready
  • DCC speaker aperture
  • Bi-directional head and tail lights
  • Constant DC internal lighting
  • Full internal detail
  • Flush-glazed bodyshell
  • 'live' coupling between carriages for pickups and DCC
  •  High quality paint finish & decals 

 

 

RRP is currently expected to be £89.99 - and delivery is anticipated during the third quarter of 2011.

 

More at www.realtrackmodels.co.uk

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

New Grafar announced!

 

Bachmann Europe took the opportunity of the International N Gauge Show at Leamington Spa over the weekend (11/12th Sept) to announce a number of new Graham Farish N gauge products.

 

A new loco was announced in the form of an LNER B1 4-6-0 loco. 4 versions will initially be available (1 x LNER green, 3 x BR black) and are expected in shops within the next two months!  

 

In terms of rolling stock, Grafar continues it's policy of replicating '00' gauge models in the smaller scale including the JPA cement and Mk1 Travelling Post Office (TPO) coaches. Interestingly, the '00' TPO coaches were a retailer-commission, but these newly-announced 'N' gauge versions will be available from all stockists.

 

The JPA wagons will be available in Castle Cement and Lafarge silver liveries. The Mk1 TPOs will be available in 4 liveries with appropriate detail differences between them (1x original '60s' livery, 1 x blue-grey livery and 2 x Royal Mail '90s' red livery). The original '60's' liveried version will also feature working platform lights capable of operation by DCC.

 

 All of these newly-announced models are also ready for shipping and should be available from your local stockist in the next 8 weeks or so.

 

Finally, the Grafar Class 14 is also imminent - due for despatch from China very shortly... could be an expensive Christmas...! (apologies for mentioning the 'C' word in September..!)

 

(12/09/2010)

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Rails 'Twins' remain on-track!

 

Sheffield retailer 'Rails of Sheffield' has confirmed that plans to produce the LMS 'Twins' is still very much on-track!

 

Following recent announcements from Hattons of Liverpool (in conjunction with Dapol) of their intention to also produce the locomotives in '00' scale, a number of discussions have been held between Rails and Bachmann Europe Ltd. Following this, the decision has been taken that the project will continue apace.

 

When the project was initially announced, Rails made it quite clear that they would solicit expressions of interest to help them determine which would be the most popular liveries , and which would not! Full details of liveries planned ( and not) will be released soon.

 

It is almost certain that the first release will be of both locomotives in their original black and chrome liveries, with 10000 carrying the LMS lettering on the bodyside. 10001 didn't carry LMS lettering as it wasn't completed until after nationalisation. In addition to producing the locos separately they're also intending to produce a presentation box set containing both locomotives along with a certificate and a 'Royal Scot' headboard.

 

Final prices are still TBA.  More at www.railsofsheffield.com .

 

 

* Incidentally, Dapol has announced that tooling for it's model of the 'Twins' has now been approved and has confirmed that a mid-February 2011 release is still planned.

 

Dapol will be showing pre-production samples of both 10000 and 10001 on it's stand at the Warley Exhibition at the NEC in Birmingham ov er the weekend of 20th/21st November.

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

New models from Kernow!

 

Kernow Model Rail Centre in Camborne has unveiled details of four new exclusive '00' gauge models:

 

First up is the LSWR Class O2 0-4-4 steam locomotive. Designed by William Adams for the London and South Western Railway, 60 of these locomotives were built at Nine Elms Works between 1889 and 1895 primarily for London suburban traffic.  Displaced by more powerful locomotives the O2s were dispersed throughout the LSWR system, their short wheelbase and relatively light weight being particularly suited to restricted branch lines.



As electrification extended and other more modern traction was introduced some examples were transferred to the Isle of Wight.  Despite some early withdrawals the O2s lasted well into BR days when branch line closures left all the remaining mainland locomotives withdrawn by 1962.  On the Isle of Wight they continued in front-line service until withdrawn in December 1966.  Two examples remained to work engineering trains during electrification work, one of which survived to be preserved.  


This preserved example, number 24 "Calbourne", will be laser scanned at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.  The data from this scan, in conjunction with drawings of the original locomotives, will allow them to create accurate models of these popular prototypes, including both types of coal bunker.


The models will be priced at £91.99 (which takes account of the VAT rate increasing to 20% in January) and delivery is expected by the end of 2011.  The models will be produced on their behalf by Dapol  using tools owned by Kernow Model Rail Centre. 

 

The models will be to the same standard as the Beattie Well Tank and should make excellent companions for these models. Four versions will initially be produced:

 

 

 

  • K2101 Dapol 0-4-4 Class O2 Steam Locomotive number 24 "Calbourne" in BR Black livery with early emblem £91.99.

 

  • K2102 Dapol 0-4-4 Class O2 Steam Locomotive number 16 "Ventnor" in BR Black livery with late crest £91.99.

 

  • K2103 Dapol 0-4-4 Class O2 Steam Locomotive number 30182 in BR Black livery with early emblem and push-pull equipment £91.99.

 

  • K2104 Dapol 0-4-4 Class O2 Steam Locomotive number 30225 in BR Black livery with late crest £91.99.

 

For diesel fans, Kernow have announced plans to produce the Bullied 1-Co-Co-1 locomotives.

 

These locos were also designed by Oliver Bulleid for the Southern Railway but did not appear until after Nationalisation.  10201 and 10202 were built at Ashford Works in 1950 with 10203 being built at Brighton Works in 1954.  The diesel engine and transmission was supplied by English Electric.


These prototypes had a relatively short life, all being withdrawn at the end of 1963. They had worked throughout the Southern Region and also had a short time on the London Midland Region during the mid 1950s.  All three were cut up in 1968.  

As with the D6xx Warship model  they are working from drawings of the original locomotives.  The tooling will allow for the differences between 10201 / 2 and the uprated 10203.

The models will be priced at £139.99 (which takes account of the VAT rate increasing to 20% in January) and delivery is expected by the end of 2012.  The models will be produced on their behalf by Dapol  using tools owned by Kernow Model Rail Centre. 

The models will be to the same standard as the D6xx Warship.

KMRC have announced this particular model a little earlier than they had intended to ensure that they don't suffer any duplication of effort with any other party.

 

 

Three versions are being produced initially:

 

  • K2701 Dapol Bulleid 1-Co-Co-1 Diesel Locomotive number 10201 in BR Black livery with early emblem £139.99.

 

  • K2702 Dapol Bulleid 1-Co-Co-1 Diesel Locomotive number 10202 in BR Black livery with early emblem £139.99.

 

  • K2703 Dapol Bulleid 1-Co-Co-1 Diesel Locomotive number 10203 in BR Black livery with early emblem £139.99.

 

Other models planned for release by KMRC include a Cornish Riviera Mk1 coach pack. Produced by Bachmann exclusively for Kernow Model Rail Centre, this will be a pack of four coaches finished in BR (WR) Chocolate and Cream livery.  The coaches will carry correct numbers and roof boards as used in the Cornish Riviera which ran between London Paddington and Penzance.  The pack will contain 2 x BSK Brake Second Corridor coaches, 1 x SK Second Corridor coach and 1 x CK Corridor Composite coach.  This coach pack will be particularly suitable for use with the forthcoming Dapol D6xx Warhip models but also for the tail end of steam operation on the route.

The models will be priced at £114.99 (which takes account of the VAT rate increasing to 20% in January) and delivery is during 2011.

 

Finally, a limited-edition Freightliner Class 08 locomotive is being produced by Bachmann and sold on behalf of the EPB Preservation Group.  Kernow Model Rail Centre will handle sales on behalf of the EPB Preservation Group to whom all proceeds will be donated.   The model is of Class 08 Diesel Shunter number 08 691 named "Terri" in Freightliner livery with weathered finish.  This model will be based on the standard Bachmann Class 08 and will be DCC ready with an 8 pin decoder socket.


The models will be priced at £69.95 (which takes account of the VAT rate increasing to 20% in January) and delivery is during 2011.

 

More info at www.kernowmodelrailcentre.com (05/09/2010)

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

More Twins!

 

There's a sense of Deja-vu in the air at the moment!

 

Just as the dust started to settle regarding the recent Blue Pullman announcements, news reaches us of another retailer-sponsored '00' version of the LMS Twins!

 

Following on from the success of their Class 14 and forthcoming Class 28 project , Hattons of Liverpool has announced it's plans to produce the LMS prototype diesels , 10000 and 10001 in '00' scale in conjunction with Dapol.

 

The company is aware of another retailer's intention (Rails of Sheffield) to commission models of the LMS twins (with Bachmann). In view of the capital that Hattons has invested so far in the project and the work undertaken with Dapol since mid 2009, they have taken the decision to continue with production, and have a mid-February 2011 delivery date planned. 

 

The spec planned for the models is impressive, as you'd expect:

 

  • All wheel drive
  • Sprung buffers
  • RP25 wheel profiles with space for EM/P4 conversion
  • All wheel pick-up
  • Centrally mounted Dapol 5-pole acute skew-wound motor
  • Flywheels
  • Separate handrails and wipers
  • Accurate nose detailing
  • Etched see-through roof grille
  • Detailed side grilles
  • Fully detailed underframe
  • Yellow and Red LED lighting
  • 21 pin DCC socket
  • Full metal chassis
  • NEM coupling pocket
  • Space for sound decoder
  • Split frame chassis
  • Pinpoint axles
  • Separately fitted roof horns
  • Cab lights
  • Brass worksplate

Liveries will all be printed. Chromed LMS letters on 10000 and numbers on both locomotives will be factory fitted.

 

Details of planned liveries, expected delivery dates and prices can all be found at www.ehattons.com  

 

At the time of writing, it appears that we will have 2 manufacturers producing models of these unique locomotives ... sound familiar? 

 

There was much debate earlier in the year on the subject of retailer commissions, it remains to be seen how things pan out over the coming months ... with the economy still fragile ... I wonder what your influencing factors will be when planning your purchase...or will you try both...?!

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Grafar changes...

 

Bachmann Europe has  announced changes to it's Graham Farish N scale range. This follows consultation with trade customers regarding production of the 9F 2-10-0 locomotive and the Class 222 Meridian / Pioneer high speed diesel multiple unit.



David Haarhaus, Sales & Marketing Manager said "It has become apparent that the present market cannot support a second 'N' scale 9F 2-10-0 or Class 222, which is in many people's eyes too similar to the Class 220 Voyager units now operated by Virgin Trains and Arriva Cross Country and are included in the current Graham Farish range. We appreciate that there are many detail differences between the Bombardier designed 222 units from the original Class 220 but unfortunately that is not enough to justify moving from design to production at this time .



David continued "We have after much soul searching decided to withdraw these items from the 2011 catalogue and put them on a back burner. If and when the market develops and it is time to look at them again, we will do so. In a Worldwide recession, we are better to put our efforts and considerable resources into bringing new models into the range. We want to reassure 'N' scale modellers that we are working on suitable replacements, details of which will be released once these exciting new models have progressed through the tooling process".



David continued "we appreciate that some N scale modellers will be disappointed by today's news but I am sure they will appreciate our honesty in this situation. There is absolutely no point in producing these models in the challenging financial climate we are all facing. We have a fantastic selection of new models already under development which will more than make up for any short term disappointment. Graham Farish is the leading manufacturer of British outline N scale trains and it is our intention to continue to build on the foundations that have been laid over the past 40 years "



The models affected are:


371-676 Class 222 4 car Meridian DMU No. 222011 in Midland Mainline livery

371-677 Class 222 4 car Pioneer DMU No. 222101 in Hull Trains livery

371-679 Class 222 4 car Meridian DMU No. 222017 in East Midlands Trains livery

372-425 BR Standard Class 9F No. 92220 'Evening Star' in BR lined green livery

372-426 BR Standard Class 9F No. 92002 in BR black with early emblem

372-427 BR Standard Class 9F No. 92205 in BR black with late crest

 

For more info see www.bachmann.co.uk  

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Bachmann's BLUE PULLMAN!

 

It's been said before, sometimes models are like buses - nothing for years and then suddenly 3 come along at once!!

 

In recent months we've had a retailer announce it's intention to commission a '00' model of the famous Blue Pullman diesel unit in conjunction with Heljan. In recent days, rumours have rattled around the internet that Hornby is blowing the cobwebs from the old Tri-ang moulds...(see separate story below)... however, today (Sun 25th) Bachmann Europe announced at it's Trade Open Day that it is to produce an all-new 6 car Midland Pullman diesel unit as part of it's Branchline '00' scale range!

 

 

Metropolitan Cammell built two of these iconic luxury trains in 1959 fo use on the Midland Main line between London St Pancras and Manchester Central during peak business travel times.

 

Following completion of the West Coast Main line electrification scheme the two Midland units moved to the Western Region to complement the similar three Western Region sets which were 8 car units. There were differences between the two types. After carrying the Pullman grey/blue (the reversed corporate blue/grey colour scheme) for a period they were withdrawn from service in May 1973.

 

 

The Blue Pullman has been a much-requested model and Bachmann was due to announce this project in March 2011. Graham Hubbard, Bachmann's Managing Director said "we are aware of others announcing the possibility of producing this unit. We have been working on it for several months and in order to bring clarity to the situation we have made our plans public".

 

Graham continued "we first looked at this famous train some years ago and at the time we did not consider it viable. However, the market has changed considerably over the past two years and we felt the time was right to dust off our plans. We had decided to do so long before the recent announcement from a retailer".

 

Each six car unit will comprise 2 x Power cars, 2 x Kitchen cars (Type 4) and 2 x Parlour cars (Type 6) and will be sold as a 6-car set.

 

The new model will incorporate today's leading edge technologies and will include the following features:

 

  • Drive System in Power car
  • New-style close coupling concept
  • Central coach ceiling and table lamp lighting
  • Directional lighting
  • Cab lights
  • Sound-prepared
  • Etched fan grilles
  • DCC socket

 

The full six-car unit (Catalogue No 31-255) is expected to retail at around £300. It is also the intention to look at DCC SOUND options in the future.

 

(25/07/2010)

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

GWR ROD announced

 

Bachmann Europe today (25th July) announced that it is to produce a GWR ROD 2-8-0 locomotive in order to meet many requests from customers following on from the LNER Class 04 version released recently.

 

 

521 locomotives were built from 1917 for use during World War 1 by the Railway Operating Division of the Royal Engineers for use in mainland Europe. Cessation of hostilities rendered them surplus (only 325 were delivered before the end of the war in 1918) and some were loaned to British railway companies before being offered for sale. The Great Western Railway bought 20 initially in 1919, which were followed by a further 80 in 1925. They were numbered 3000 - 3099.

 

The GWR subsequently modified the basic locomotives fitting new chimneys, top feed, dome etc. The last GWR version was withdrawn from Carmarthen in 1958.

 

 

Three versions of the GWR version have been announced. These are:

 

  • 31-127 in BR black with early emblem
  • 31-128 in BR black with early emblem (weathered)
  • 31-129 in GWR green

 

These locomotives are expected to retail at a similar price to the recently released LNER 04 2-8-0 locomotives.

 

(25/07/2010)

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hornby & The Blue Pullman...

 

Hornby has confirmed rumours circulating recently regarding it's Blue Pullman tooling. Correspondence from Simon Kohler confirms that the manufacturer is indeed inspecting it's tooling and has recently shipped it out to China.

 

Simon says, " There has been much rumour just recently concerning Hornby and the Blue Pullman tooling.  So as to prevent further conjecture and even more rumours I am happy to confirm that we have shipped the Blue Pullman tooling to China for examination with a view to seeing what is required should we wish to commence production. 

 

I have obviously been watchful of the demand for the Blue Pullman and the interest generated whenever the train is mentioned and even though I am on record  of being sceptical I believe that there is significant interest for Hornby to once again consider manufacture.  Obviously times and expectations have changed over the years and I can confirm that Hornby do have a complete set of works drawings for the Blue Pullman train including those coaches that were never produced. 

 

As time progresses I will keep you and your readers aware of our plans concerning the Blue Pullman but for the time being it is a question of watch with keen anticipation this space."

 

(24/07/2010)

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Special Delivery!

 

UK model retailer Modelzone's latest specially-commissioned models of the Travelling Post Office (TPO) vans have arrived!

 

 

These long-awaited models don't disappoint! Manufactured for Modelzone by Bachmann, the model represents the Mk 1 Post Office Stowage (POS) van, built by BR's Wolverton Works in 1959 to Diagram 720.

 

These all-new models have been produced to a very high standard and feature letterboxes, recessed doors, handrails, mesh / bars (dependent on era) behind the windows, fine underframe and bogie detail and even detail differences between eras... such as side lights on the late-60's Royal Mail red version and appropriate bogies etc...oh, and the printing is exquisite - even down to the first-class posting box labelling!

 

 

4 distinctly different models are available - 3 of which map the livery history of coach 80300 from the 60's through to the late 80's.

 

 

Be quick though, demand for these models has been strong. The variations available are as follows (production run of each is shown in bold):

 

  • 39-420 W   W80300 BR Royal Mail Red TPO (60s)  (2,000)
  • 39-420 X    M80300 BR Blue/Grey TPO (70s/80s)  (2000)
  • 39-420 Y    80300 'Royal Mail Letters' red/yellow (80s/90s) (1000)
  • 39-420 Z    80305 'Travelling Post Office' red/yellow (90s/00s) (1000)

 

 

The standard and quality of these models shows just how far production techniques have improved in recent times - First Class!

 

RRP is £31.99 per model.

 

More at www.modelzone.co.uk

(21/07/10)

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Building on success....

 

Bachmann's Scenecraft range continues to expand, and following on from the release of the TPO models for Modelzone (see above), images have been released of some appropriate TPO apparatus, due later in the year.

 

 

The 44-045 TPO Apparatus set consists of a lineside hut, mailbag apparatus and catching net and is typical of the equipment used for loading and unloading mail on the move in days gone by.

 

 

(Obviously, the TPO models that have just been released have been produced without nets etc... but could this mean versions with nets are in the pipeline, to complement the apparatus ?!)

 

RRP for 44-045 is £23.95

 

Just-released from Bachmann is 44-045 the '00' scale 4-road Engine Shed. This is based on another common structure of larger depots during the steam-era. The 4 lane shed features weathered vents, fully detailed interior and access ladders. It has been specifically designed to be compatible with standard track geometry.

 

 

Availability is limited at the moment as the engine shed is large and care is being taken in the production and distribution of the product. More will be available in the coming weeks. RRP is £94.95

 

 

On a similar theme, those Southern-Electric fans amongst you will be looking forward to the forthcoming 44-083 'Carriage Shed'. This model is typical of the open-ended corrugated buildings that have housed EMUs for many decades. The shed will have three-road width capacity and will be able to accomodate coaches up to Mk 1 length. Buildings can be linked to form extended sheds , as well as be adapted for other uses. RRP is £33.95. This model is due for release later this year.

 

www.bachmann.co.uk (21/07/10)

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Hornby opens it's doors!

 

Hornby has opened the doors of it's famous headquarters on the Westwood Industrial Estate in Margate.

 

The company has created a visitor centre which is now open every weekend . The new visitor centre not only features it's own rich archive of model railways dating back through it's history but also models and toys from other famous brands the company now owns, such as Airfix, Corgi and Scalextric. As well as it's own back catalogue of products, some of the items on display have been loaned by collectors.

 

Many of the displays will be refreshed regularly and examples of some of the latest products will also be on-show - including samples of items not yet in full production. 

 

Tickets are now available on a 'turn-up-&-visit' basis on Friday afternoons, Saturdays and Sundays. (pre-booking is no longer required)

 

Ticket prices are Adults £4, Senior Citizens £2, Children £2, Family ticket £10. For enquiries contact 01843 233522  

The visitor centre and shop is open at the following times:

 

  • Friday                  2pm - 6pm
  • Saturday             10am - 5pm
  • Sunday                10am - 5pm

 

More details at  www.hornby.com/visitorcentre/

(updated 11/07/2010)

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Hattons' Heljan Commissions

 

Liverpool retailer Hattons has unveiled details of a selection of special commissions from Heljan to be produced exclusively for them, as follows:

 

  • 3318v2   Class 33/0 D6517 in plain BR Green                  
  • 3318W   Class 33/0 D6526 in plain BR Green (wthrd)     
  • 4791       Class 47 47 508 'SS Great Britain' BR Blue      
  • 4794       Class 47 47 555 'Commonwealth Spririt' 4790BR Blue (wthrd)
  • 4790       Class 47 D1501 BR 2-tone Green with small yellow panel
  • 4793       Class 47 D1661 'North Star' in BR Green full yellow ends (wthrd)  
  • 4792       Class 47 D1916/47 812 Riviera Trains 'Heritage' BR Green
  • 5305       Class 53 D0280 'Falcon' in original Lime Green (wthrd)
  • 5306       Class 53 D0280 'Falcon' in BR 2-tone Green small yellow panels (wthrd)

 

All models will be limited to 500 pieces and prices range from £74 for the pristine Class 33 & Class 47 models to £79 for the weathered versions.

 

The Class 53 'Falcon' models will retail at £99 each.

 

More details at www.ehattons.com

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Dapol's DEMU Announcements!

 

Dapol chose the DEMU Showcase exhibition in Burton on Trent as an opportunity to announce a plethora of '00' scale modern-image releases!

  

 

 

 

By the end of June / early July the following NEW items will be available from your local model retailer:

 

  • B855a-d   JNA 'Falcon' wagon in Network Rail Yellow livery - 4 different running numbers. RRP £19.95
  • B855e-h   JNA 'Falcon' wagon in Network Rail Yellow livery (weathered) - 4 different running numbers. (exclusive to Hattons of Liverpool) RRP tba
  • B856a-d   IOA bogie ballast wagon in Network Rail Yellow livery - 4 different running numbers. RRP £9.95
  • B856e-h   IOA bogie ballast wagon in Network Rail Yellow livery (weathered) - 4 different running numbers (exclusive to Hattons of Liverpool) RRP tba
  • OOcat1   '00' scale Catenary mast pack containing 10 x Mk3 high speed pantograph masts (using the Dapol 'Easi-fix' type of baseboard mounting screw - as used for the N scale versions). Pack contains 5 long arm and 5 short arm masts. RRP £9.95 per pack

 

 

Dapol also announced that they are also to produce the MSW masts and gantries as used between Manchester and Sheffield and also currently still to be found on the BR Network around Manchester and also in East Anglia. These are expected to be available around the time of release of the proposed Heljan model Class 76.

 

In addition, Dapol also announced that it is to release the following wagons in '00' gauge over the coming months. Metal has already started to be cut for the first two single models below:

 

  • B857    Turbot bogie ballast wagon (clean & weathered versions available) RRP approx £16.95
  • B858    BBA bogie steel wagon with removable coils (clean & weathered versions available. RRP approx £16.95
  • B859    MRA side-tipping ballast train (t be sold as a 5-unit set, which includes the generator vehicle with different sized hoppers. All hoppers will be manually tiltable with side opening doors (hopefully). RRP approx £125.00 per set. (All liveries to be produced including weathered sets)

 

Finally, the following are in the final stages of research and CAD/CAM:

  • B860 a-d   MLA bogie ballast wagon in EWS livery (correct bogies)
  • B860 e-h   MLA bogie ballast wagon in Network Rail livery (with correct bogies)

Weathered examples of both are expected to be produced in conjunction with the standard clean versions.

 

www.dapol.co.uk (12/10/2010)

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Realtrack Sets the Pace(r)!

 

New kid on the block, Realtrack Models, has unveiled plans for it's next ready-to-run model following production of it's '00' scale Freightliner FLA wagons.

 

The Class 143 / 144 Alexander/Barclay family of DMUs!

 

 

The first model to be produced will be the 2-car Class 144 DMU. As you can see CAD drawing work is already well advanced on the bodyshell, with design work on the drive unit also now underway (provisional design below).

 

 

This new model promises to meet today's exacting standards of detail and reliability, with the intention that the 2-car unit will feature a single powered car, powerful enough to pull a 3-car set. All windows will be see-through without internal cast blocks spoiling the overall appearance and balance of the train.

 

 

The spec for this (and subsequent DMUs / EMUs / locos *) is impressive:

  • 5-pole skew-wound motor and low-profile gearbox and gear train
  • Individually moulded seating & partition layout
  • External handrail & roof detailing
  • Dummy Delner coupling in NEM pocket (DMU & EMUs only)
  • Bi-directional head and tail lights
  • Constant DC Internal lighting
  • Flush-glazed bodyshell
  • 'Live' coupling between carriages (DMU & EMUs only)
  • DCC Ready
  • DCC Speaker aperture (for future sound-fitted models)
  • High Quality paint finish

 

 

The Class 144 will be introduced in a range of current modern liveries suitable for operation during the period 2000 to 2012:

  • 144-01   2-car DMU in Northern Night Blue & Purple livery
  • 144-02   2-car DMU in WYPTE  Red & Silver Grey livery
  • 144-03   2-car DMU in Regional Railways livery (due 2012)
  • 144-04   2-car DMU in Metro Train Red & Cream livery (due 2012)

 

These models will then be followed by the Class 143 . The spec of this 2-car DMU will be identical to the Class 144 but will include a new bufferbeam with early footsteps, repositioned battery boxes and electrical equipment and a redesigned seating layout to suit the Class 143, which differs from the later-built Class 144 DMU's in their current day operations.

 

The Class 143 will also be released in a range of current modern liveries suitable for operation during the period 2005 to 2012:

  • 143-01   2-car DMU in Arriva Trains Wales current Aquamarine & Cream livery
  • 143-02   2-car DMU in First Great Western 'Local Lines' livery

 

It is anticipated that the Class 144 models will be available during Q3 2011 followed by the Class 143 during early 2012.

 

Prices will be set in due course. More info can be found at www.realtrackmodels.co.uk.

 

(* note intention of future models...)

(12/06/2010)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 'Research' goes N Gauge for Modelzone

 

Retail chain Modelzone has announced some new limited edition models in 'N' Gauge.

 

Firstly, a Farish Class 24 Diesel loco 97201 in the BR Research Technical Centre livery of Red & Blue. This model was produced some years ago in '00' gauge for the chain as a limited edition, and is highly sought after. This 'N' gauge model will be limited to 504 pieces and is being produced exclusively for Modelzone. Delivery is anticipated to be 3rd/4th quarter this year. Price has been set at £89.99 (372-975Z)

 

To complement the loco, a pair of Farish 'N' gauge Mk 1 coaches are also being produced. These will also feature the Red/Blue RTC livery. The pack of 2 coaches will consist of Test Coach 5 and Lab 12, and will be on the new Farish Mk1 tooling. Again these are being produced exclusively for Modelzone (in similar vein to their previous '00' counterparts) and limited to 504 packs. These are also anticipated for delivery during the 3rd/4th quarter this year. The price for this pair of coaches has still to be confirmed. (374-000Z)

 

Finally, Modelzone's latest limited edition arrival is their exclusive '00' scale model of the Hornby Class 466 Networker EMU in Network SouthEast 'Kent Link Networker' livery. This 2-car unit is limited to just 1,000 pieces and is priced at £94.99 (R2893). Available instore and on-line at www.modelzone.co.uk now!

 

(11/06/2010)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Bachmann IPA emerges!

 

The first painted sample of Bachmann's new '00' scale Branchline model of the IPA Twin Double-Deck Car Transporter has been received in Barwell for approval, prior to production.

 

 

The model is packed with features including etched hinged bridging plates, articulated axle boxes, close coupling system and highly detailed underside equipment. The end ramps on the top deck can also be raised or left in the lowered position.

 

Item No. 38-250 will be released in the STVA red livery and will be priced at £30.25.

 

www.bachmann.co.uk (11/06/2010)

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kernow's Warship on the horizon!

 

One of the UK's most prolific retailers of limited and special edition models, has announced that orders can now be accepted for it's next special edition locomotive.

 

Kernow Model Rail Centre's  forthcoming '00' model of the D6xx Warship is progressing well, after taking a back seat to other projects such as the Beattie Well Tank & Class 205 DEMU. These models had overtaken the Warship due to the fact they were laser-scanned, which saved a considerable amount of time and allowed them to progress quicker.

 

CAD/CAMs for the D6xx are currently under production and should be available shortly. Much work has been done from original drawings and other source material.

 

Five versions are being produced by KMRC, as follows:

 

K2600 - D600  "Active" in BR Blue livery with full yellow ends, headcode boxes and mesh grilles
K2601 - D601  "Ark Royal" in BR Green livery with no yellow ends, headcode disks and louvres
K2602 - D602  "Bulldog" in BR Green livery with small yellow ends, headcode boxes and mesh grilles
K2603 - D603  "Conquest" in BR Green livery with small yellow ends, headcode disks and mesh grilles
K2604 - D604  "Cossack" in BR Green livery with no yellow ends, headcode disks and mesh grilles

 

The models will be priced at £129.99 each (subject to VAT remaining at 17.5%), and delivery is expected during 2011. The models are being produced by Dapol on behalf of KMRC using tools owned by the retailer. Each model will be a certified limited edition of 750 and will feature etched nameplates , working directional and cab lighting, 5-pole skew-wound motor with flywheels and will be DCC ready.

 

More details at www.kernowmodelrailcentre.com (08/06/2010)

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


 

Another Southern Electric approaches... 

 

The latest images of Bachmann's Branchline '00' model of the forthcoming Class 416 (2-EPB) Electric Multiple Unit have been revealed. The images show the engineering evaluation sample for assessment.

 

 

These models follow-on from the superbly detailed 4-CEP EMU released at the turn of the year, and promise a veritable cornucopia of detail, including full underfloor equipment, illuminated headcode panel and internal lighting.

 

 

Four versions will initially be available, one of which is a limited edition model for Welsh retailer, Lord & Butler:

 

 

  • 31-375      BR Blue livery
  • 31-376      BR (S) Green livery
  • 31-377      BR Blue/Grey livery
  • 31-378?    BR (S) Green livery with small yellow warning panel (Ltd Edt)

 

 

RRP for each of the standard models is £99.90. (check with L & B for the expected price of their Limited Edition)

 

Finished models are expected to be released around December/January.

 

The prototypes were stalwarts of suburban services on the former Southern Region of BR, and the Bachmann model is based on the BR-built Class 416/2 2-car units .

 

More at www.bachmann.co.uk

 

(05/06/2010)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Realtrack FLA - almost here!

 

Samples of Realtrack models' all-new '00' gauge FLA Freightliner wagons are in the UK, and will be available to view at the DEMU Show in Bretby (Burton-On-Trent) this weekend.

 

 

 

Finished stock should be here in late September, just in time for the modelling season!

 

 

Also, watch this space at the weekend (12/13 June), as Realtrack will be unveiling details of their next projects at the DEMU Showcase event in Burton-On-Trent (see exhibition diary page for more details). 

www.realtrackmodels.co.uk 

 

(05/06/2010)

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

More Model Rail Limited Editions

 

 

 

Model Rail magazine has announced details of another tranche of Limited Edition Bachmann '00' scale models.

 

Following the announcement of a Class 150 'Sprinter' DMU in the now-extinct Scotrail 'Swoosh' livery, the next models in the programme of releases includes:

 

 

  • Class 37/4 37 409 in DRS Compass livery
  • Mk2a BSO escort coaches in DRS livery (pack of 2)

 

 

In addition, Model Rail's latest limited edition wagon, the ZDA S&T wagon has just been released. The model is based on Bachmann's '00' gauge OCA open wagon and carries S&T red/yellow livery with InterCity Great Western Engineer's departmental markings. Price per model is £19.99 incl p&p.

 

More at www.modelrailoffers.co.uk

 

(06/06/2010)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dapol's Class 22 CAD/CAM's complete

 

Dapol has finished the design work for it's first '00' scale locomotive in many years, the Class 22.

 

 

The delay in producing this model has been down to a combination of factors including lack of plans and a desire to include as much detail as possible. This detail includes lots of separately attached factory-fitted bogie details and the creation of lower bodyside valances (and assorted detail behind them) for customer fitting which will allow you to fit them in all positions or be selective - and with a little modelling at various angles, just like the real thing!

 

The CAD/CAM has now progressed to the tool-room. In addition, the new 5-pole skew-wound '00' gauge 'super-creep' motor is currently undergoing factory testing prior to being fitted to a test chassis for destructive and endurance testing.

 

More at www.dapol.co.uk 

 

(06/06/2010)  

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Hattons announce another Special Commission...

 

Liverpool-based retailer Hattons has announced it's next exclusive Special Commission following the success of it's '00' gauge Class 14 project, produced by Heljan.

 

This new project will take the form of the Metropolitan-Vickers Class 28 Co-Bo locomotive!

 

 

20 of these locos were produced in the late 1950's and were well-known for being the main locomotives to haul the new 'Condor' Freightliner service for BR in 1959 - hauling this in pairs from London to Glasgow.

 

There will be 7 variants produced initially:

 

  • 2800   D5700 Full BR Green
  • 2801   D5705 BR Green with Small Yellow Panels (as preserved)
  • 2802   D5707 BR Green with Full Yellow Ends
  • 2803   D5718 BR Green with Small Yellow Panels (weathered)
  • 2804   D5708 BR Green with Full Yellow Ends (weathered)
  • 2805   D5701 BR Blue
  • 2806   D5701 BR Blue (weathered)

 

RRP is set at £125 for pristine finish and £132 for weathered finish models. Quantities produced of each version differs (see www.ehattons.com for more details)

 

The spec for this new commission is impressive, and each loco will feature all-wheel drive and pick-up, sprung buffers, flywheels, see-through roof grille, directional LED lighting, 8 open and 8 closed headcode discs, NEM couplings, 8-pin DCC socket and much more!

 

Delivery is anticipated during the first quarter of 2011.

 

The commissioning of this loco type is significant because Hattons bought the remaining stocks of the old Hornby-Dublo Co-Bo's (as well as other models) when the manufacturer went out of business . They had thousands in stock for many years and customers were directed to Hattons if they were looking for one of the Class 28's.

 

More info at www.ehattons.com  (17/05/2010)

 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

..and another - from Rails of Sheffield...

 

Rails of Sheffield, in partnership with Bachmann Europe plc, has also announced that they are planning to develop and release brand new '00' gauge models of the pioneer LMS-designed prototype diesels , 10000 and 10001 , the LMS Twins!

 

Much thought is being given to the initial limited-edition releases, likely to be of both locos in BR Black with the additional fittings they carried for their last year on the Southern Region and for the following 12 months after their return to the London Midland Region.

 

Following that, consideration is being given to releasing versions in BR Brunswick Green with eggshell blue waistbands and grey roofs.

 

Locos will be available separately or as a pair.

 

A significant investment is being made to develop and produce these locos, which will also cater for the subtle differences between the two locomotives. Confirmation of the planned releases and prices will be revealed fully soon on a new dedicated website, once costings have been finalised.

 

Graham Hubbard, Managing Director for Bachmann Europe, commented, "We were approached by Rails of Sheffield earlier this year with a view to producing these popular locomotives in partnership with them. Our response was a very positive one and following recent detailed discussions with the production facility in China, the first release could be available in early 2012."

 

More info can be found at www.railsofsheffield.com  (17/05/2010)

 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

 

..oh..and more... also a Class 76 and Blue Pullman!!...

 

Sheffield retailer 'Olivia's Trains' has announced it's intention to produce Class 76/77 EM1 & EM2 DC Overhead Electric locos in '00' scale... and a 'Blue Pullman' in 4mm scale too!

 

The EM1 & EM2 specification will include sprung buffers, all-wheel drive, 5 Pole motor with flywheel,  21 Pin DCC Socket (is this a first on Heljan-produced models?), Pre-fitted speaker, LED lights - including a red lens to cover over a lamp as per the real thing!

 

The first run of EM1 liveries includes:

 

  • 26020 in BR lined Black Early Emblem
  • BR Green with Cream Roof
  • Pre-TOPS 26 0XX in BR Blue livery with cream roof
  • 2 versions of TOPS 76 0XX in BR Blue livery with cream roof & multiple working cables

 

Estimated RRP of the basic locomotive is £149 each.

 

The first run of EM2 liveries includes:

 

  • BR lined Black Early Emblem
  • BR Green with cream roof
  • BR Electric Blue livery

 

Estimated RRP of the basic locomotive is £154 each.

 

Expected delivery date for the EM1 / EM2 locos is August 2011.

 

The retailer is teaming up with Heljan on the above projects, and more info will be available soon from a dedicated website. For more details go to www.oliviastrains.com . (17/05/2010)

 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

First sighting of 'Ugly Duck'.....

 

Bachmann Europe Plc has just revealed the first images of the forthcoming '00' Class 70 Freightliner diesel locomotive. The first engineering prototype pictures  of this impressive (some would say 'ugly'..) beast show the wealth of detail we can expect. The locos will feature multi-function lighting controls, 21 pin decoder socket and will be available DCC Sound enabled.

 

 

The two versions for general release are:

 

  • 31-585      70 006 Freightliner Powerhaul livery
  • 31-586      70 003 Freightliner Powerhaul livery 

 

Given that the full-size locos only arrived in the UK in the last 12 months, the turnround time in getting work progressed this far is amazing when you consider how long some models can spend in development.

 

RRP for each loco is £94.95

 

More images at www.bachmann.co.uk (07/05/10)

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Bachmann '00' Additions

 

Bachmann has unveiled an addition to it's 2010 range of Scenecraft 00 scale model buildings, based on a preserved railway prototype.

 

 

 

Item no 44-087, Bluebell Waiting Room, has been created to celebrate 50 years of the famous Bluebell Railway in East Sussex. The model is based on the waiting room which can be found on platform 2 at Sheffield Park station.

 

The Scenecraft model will feature transparent windows, period posters and intricate hand-assembled canopy supports.

 

RRP is £39.95

 

 

In addition, a number of alterations have been announced regarding a few items in the Bachmann Branchline 2010 catalogue. Running numbers have changed, whilst liveries will remain as previously announced:

 

  • 31-012      Class 7F 2-8-0 53810 Black Late Crest Weathered with Flush Tender
  • 32-386      Class 37/5 Railfreight Metals sector 37 513
  • 32-387      Class 37/5 Railfreight Red Stripe 37 506

 

 

Finally, first images of the painted samples for the 00 gauge Robinson O4 locos, due around June/July have been posted on Bachmann's website.

 

 

The models will feature a 21-pin DCC socket in the tender, detailed cab interior and adjustable draw-bar length. Three models are initially being released:

 

  • 31-001 BR Black Late Crest  63601
  • 31-002 BR Black Early Emblem 63635
  • 31-003 LNER Black 6190

 

RRP for all models is £128.75

 

More at www.bachmann.co.uk

(05/05/10)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Limited Edition Update

 

The programme of Limited Edition models continues unabated, with more models unveiled for release in the coming months.

 

Model Rail magazine is to commission a number of new Bachmann models including a BR Black Class 08 diesel shunter D3052. The loco will feature factory-applied heavy weathering as per the prototype, as well as black/yellow warning stripes on each end, which was unusual for the period, and was one of at least two so adorned.

 

Also approved for production is a model of Network Rail yellow Mk2a dormitory coach DB977337. The prototype accompanies the ultrasonic test train UTU2 across the rail network, and will act as an ideal accompaniment for the magazine's previously released Network Rail liveried Class 37 loco. Delivery of this limited edition is expected in late summer.

 

Whilst on the subject of Mk2 coaches, the magazine has also just revealed artwork for a set of 4 coaches in Regional Railways livery. This much-requested livery looked superb on the prototypes, and the models should prove popular. They will be supplied in two twin-packs of coaches, one featuring 2 x TSO coaches, the other featuring a BSO & TSO to make up a 4-coach rake. Artwork images can be seen here . These coaches are expected to be available during the autumn.

 

Finally, the latest model to be announced by the magazine is a Class 150 Sprinter in the popular Scotrail 'Swoosh' livery, in conjunction with Edinburgh retailer Harburn Hobbies. Based on the recent Bachmann 00 scale model, this limited edition should also prove popular, and follow on from the recently released Class 107 3-Car DMU in Strathclyde PTE livery.

 

Bachmann has completed the artwork design and models are expected to be available later this year. You can see the artwork here . More info on these (and others...) will follow in the next edition of Model Rail magazine (MR 144) later this month. 

 

(05/05/2010)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bachmann's Eastern Delights! 

 

Bachmann Europe has revealed the latest CAD images for the new Eastern Ventilated Vans with all-new tooling.

 

 

The vans feature a highly-detailed chassis as used on the steel open wagons, and are typical of van construction favoured by the LNER.

 

Item 38-380 will be released  in BR Early Bauxite livery with corrugated metal ends and 38-381 will be in late BR Bauxite livery - also with corrugated metal ends.

 

Two distinctive fruit vans are also included featuring roof ventilators and 'louvre' ends. Item 38-385 will be in early BR Bauxite livery and 38-386 will carry the late BR Bauxite livery.

 

For the version with planked ends, item 38-375 will be released in LNER Oxide livery and 38-376 will come in early BR Bauxite livery.

 

RRP for all wagons is £8.65 each

 

More CAD images and info at www.bachmann.co.uk  

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Bachmann Derby Lightweight Livery Change

 

A subtle livery change has been made by Bachmann to the descriptions of the Branchline Derby Lightweight DMU models, as follows:

 

32-515   Derby Lightweight DMU BR Green Half Yellow Ends

32-516   Derby Lightweight DMU BR Green Speed Whiskers

32-517   Derby Lightweight DMU BR Blue Full Yellow Ends

 

www.bachmann.co.uk (16/04/2010) #

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Latest Kernow Limited Edition Arrives!

Kernow Model Rail Centre in Camborne has just received it's latest Bachmann '00' Gauge Limited Edition model. This new arrival is a Class 57 Diesel loco No. 57 605 'Totnes Castle' in the latest First Great Western blue livery. (Item 32-752Y)

 

Timing couldn't have been better given the recent HST and Mk III coaches released by Hornby in the same livery!

 

Whilst many have been pre-ordered, there are still some available for general sale at £94.99 each.

 

More at www.kernowmodelrailcentre.com

 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 ViTrains New Releases announced 

 

The next new '00' releases from ViTrains have been announced by the HobbyCo for release during May and June as follows:

 

V2065      47 810 'Captain Sensible' in Cotswold Rail silver livery

V2096      47 839 'Pegasus' in Riviera Trains blue livery

V2097      47 237 in Advenza Freight blue livery

V2074      37 415 in EW&S livery

 

More vitrains info at www.hobbyco.net

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------