'Austrian Goods' kit revealed for 'O'

The Glasgow and South Western Railway Association in conjunction with Taff Vale Models is to introduce a 7mm:1ft scale brass kit of the G&SWR Class 403 2-6-0 'Austrian Goods'. Though full details are yet to be revealed, the GSWR said: "it is hoped that kits will be available to buy from early 2024, at a price around £460, excluding wheels and motor/gears." The GSWR is to open its deposit book shortly to secure kits for £80 each.

The Class 403 locomotive, designed for freight traffic, was designed by Peter Drummond in 1915. A factory rumour that it was constructed using metal destined for Austria was dispelled by David L Smith (a recognised author of the G&SWR), but the nickname of 'Austrian Goods' stuck, adding a peck of glamour. It was a superheated version of the 279 Class of 0-6-0 locomotive, with a pony wheel at the front to carry the additional weight of the superheater.

It is believed that the design inspired James the Red Engine in the stories of the Rev. W. Audrey. In reality none of the original locomotives were any colour other than G&SWR Drummond green, or LMS black.

The locomotives ran on the Glasgow-Dumfries-Stranraer triangle in which the G&SWR operated, and in LMS days examples were based on the Highland Line at Tain, and at Carlisle where the regularly worked on ex-Caledonian lines. They were frequent visitors to the Cumbrian coast and the Settle & Carlisle. Although not fitted for steam heat, there are records of them being used on passenger traffic, particularly at high days and holidays when every available locomotive was needed. The second-longest surviving G&SWR tender locomotive, the last was scrapped in 1947, just making it into British Railways days, but none were taken into BR stock.

Interested parties are invited to visit the G&SWR website for more information.