a Members-only Model Memento

The N Gauge Society is to celebrate its 50th anniversary in fine style - by commissioning its first ready-to-run locomotive. The NGS has chosen the 50t Hunslet 0‑6‑0DH, built in large numbers from the early 1960s with a 325hp Rolls-royce C8SFL engine. Not only is it the NGS’S first locomotive, but it will be the first purely industrial design produced ready-to-run in ‘N’. It’s being designed by former Bachmann designer Colin Allbright, and is expected to sport a die-cast body with an injection-moulded plastic cab to maximise adhesive weight. It will have working lights, NEM couplers and lots of separately fitted details. NGS Product Development Officer Mike Hale and Vice President Ben Ando have measured surviving examples at both the Elsecar Heritage Railway and the National Coal Mining Museum. Ten liveries are planned, but it’s not confirmed whether all will make it into production. Like other NGS ready-to-run models, it will only be available to its members.

remains part of the main range. Hornby’s TTS budget-sound system is now available in more locomotives, including the ‘Castle’, Maunsell ‘S15’ and Class 08, as well as the Railroad Class 37 and Class 20. As always, there’s an extensive list of new liveries for passenger and freight rolling stock. Several wagons now carry liveries to accompany popular locomotives in the range, such as the ‘VIX’ ferry van in bauxite to run with the Class 71 while there’s a six-plank open wagon in Huntley & Palmers colours to complement the Peckett 0‑4‑0ST (see page 20).