ACCURASCALE SHARES FIRST EPS OF CLASS 37

Accurascale has said it has "received a substantial parcel containing a myriad of Class 37 bodies and various tooling parts" from its factory, allowing the team to produce a model of class doyen D6700. In the weeks ahead, Accurascale has promised operating samples of its other announced variants, including the highly-anticipated WIPACequipped Class 37/6, Scottish car headlight Class 37/0s, the modern Class 37/4s and its manufacturer exclusive 97301 with its unique roof, distinctive flush noses and underbody-mounted radar equipment.

Announced at the Warley Model Rail Show in 2019, the models proved popular with modellers, showing appetite for a new generation of 'Syphons'. The manufacturer opted to assemble the prototype sample as D6700 – a locomotive that recently celebrated its 60th birthday and which is the subject of a special edition model with Locomotion Models, due for release next year.

This pre-production model represents the first five locomotives of the class constructed, delivered from English Electric’s Vulcan Foundry at Newton-le-Willows between December 1960 and January 1961. Distinctive when compared to the other 114 split headcode machines due to their characteristic riveted multi-part cantrail grilles, Accurascale’s model represents this and a range of other 'as-built' features.

The prototypes haven't previously been done in this condition in OO gauge, offering modellers variation in their fleet for 1960s and 1970s BR era layouts.

These include a four-character headcode display, frost grille, double-riveted roof, buffer beam cowling with large round Oleo buffers, bodyside water filler access door and steps, and accurate early buffer beam with vacuum/steam/control piping only.