Here We Go Again!

A finely detailed 00 gauge locomotive for £2.99.

Following on from 'Your Model Railway Village' it's another part work magazine with an opening offer of A4 class Mallard and magazine about the A4 class for £2.99. This time from Amermedia not Hatchett.

Don't get too excited. It is a non motorised display model but finely detailed never the less with cab details, vacuum pipes, brake gear, separate hand rails, window glass etc. etc. Regrettably, the wheels and coupling rods are fixed so can't be motorised. I dare say some modellers will strip off the bodies and attempt to add a motorised chassis (and I look forward to reading about these conversions) but I bought this as a display model and will not be customising it.


I was in two minds as to whether or not to open the package but the decision was made for me when I saw one of the bogie wheels rolling past the locomotive! This was easily repaired with a spot of super glue.

Tender details are particularly fine with minute printing showing water levels.

The cab has moulded pipe work etc. but none of it has been given painted highlights, except the regulator handle. I would like to have seen the additions of driver Joe Duddington and fireman Tommy Bray, the crew who achieved the 126 mph record.

Whilst mounted on a plastic rail and base, there is no dust cover. The clear packaging could be used but is not ideal and a poor quality substitute for a solid enclosure. The model will become a dust collector if not displayed in an enclosed case or cabinet.

The next issue for £5.99 includes a LMS Duchess class. Southern locomotives planned for future issues at £8.99 are to include Schools and West Country Class. All good value in my opinion considering Dapol kits are about the same price and these need to be assembled and painted. I do not plan to subscribe but I hope the Southern locomotive issues will appear in the shops as I will buy these.

Now I'm off to read the 15 page magazine.