Present Your Case
If there’s a locomotive that you think needs to be offered ready-to-run, here’s the place to voice your opinion…
Locomotive:
Isle of Man Railway Beyer Peacock 2-4-0Ts Gauge: ‘OON12’ Proposed by: David Lloyd‑jones, Isle of Man
What is it?
The 3ft gauge Isle of Man Railway was mainly a passenger railway catering for thousands of visiting holidaymakers and, after several takeovers, its network reached the principal towns of Douglas, Ramsay, Peel and Port Erin. One of its most recognisable features was the fleet of 15 Beyer Peacock 2-4-0Ts. This design was based on similar Beyer Peacock products that were built for service around the world from Norway, Egypt, Australia and, of course, Britain. However, the proportions of the Manx version has produced a very attractive Victorian tank locomotive.
Ireland had a huge network of 3ft gauge lines but nothing compares to the Isle of Man and its unique fleet of Beyer Peacock 2-4-0Ts. They exude Victorian charm with their polished brass domes, paintwork and copper pipework.
What would make it viable?
While ‘OO9’ is enjoying a resurgence with superb ready-to-run locomotives and rolling stock readily available from the likes of Bachmann and Peco, it’s time to give ‘OON12’ (also known as ‘OON3’) the same focus. This is 4mm:1ft scale trains running on 12mm gauge track to replicate 3ft gauge railways. The track is available from Peco, so why not produce something to run on it?
While they appear to look the same, they are all slightly different as they were supplied in different batches over a 53-year period. Combined with the various liveries these locomotives have carried over the years, there would be plenty of variety and opportunities for a potential manufacturer.
The Isle of Man Railway is the last stateowned steam-worked railway in the British Isles. It’s never been dieselised like those in Britain or Ireland, and aside from a few shaky years in the 1960s and 1970s, it was never properly closed either. Paul A. Lunn has extolled the railway’s virtues, both scenically and operationally, before (MR258). Surely it’s about time that this historic and beautiful railway system be honoured with 21st-century models, rather than the elderly EX-GEM kits that modellers currently have to rely on?
Can I see a real one?
A trip to the IOM is a must to see these engines operating in their natural habitat. Of the 15 2-4-0Ts built for the island, 14 survive. Some are on display, some are in store and six are in operational condition. Two, including No. 3 Pender at the Manchester Museum of Science & Industry, are on the British mainland.
Have your say
Do you agree with David’s argument? Go to www.model-rail.co.uk and take part in our vote.
15 What book are you reading at the moment?
I am re-reading all of Arthur Ransome’s Swallows and Amazons collection.
16 If you were stranded on a tropical island, what two things would you want with you?
A pencil and the Squires catalogue!
17 What have you done that you are most proud of?
Encouraged people to have a go at building a model railway.
18 What is your favourite song?
Piano Man by Billy Joel.
19 First record you bought?
Mozart’s Symphony Number 40.
20 What is the best advice you ever had?
Measure twice, cut once. My father taught me this.
21 What is one food you wouldn’t want to give up?
Marks & Spencer mince beef pies!
22 If you had access to a time machine, where and when would you go?
Anywhere on the West Highland Line in the 1970s.
23 What was your favourite cartoon show growing up?
Popeye.
24 Favourite film?
Hacksaw Ridge.
25 Temptation you wish you could resist?
Fry’s Chocolate Cream bars.
26 The hidden talent which would surprise people?
I am a semi-professional pianist and organist. I regularly play for shows, weddings and events.
27 If you could pass any new law?
Something to do with railway exhibitions closing at 4 o’clock…
28 What do you drive?
A BMW X1 (the layouts fit in it).
29 Perfect Sunday?
Lunch at a National Trust property with my wife.
30 Who would you like to play you in a film?
Anyone who is bald.
31 How would you like to be remembered?
As someone whose layouts and music have given others pleasure.