GWR Type 7 signal box exclusive for retailer

Model retailer, Kernow Model Rail Centre has released a new model commission for 2mm:1ft scale of the Truro GWR Type 7 signal box. Manufactured by Graham Farish, and available only from the retailer (42-011X), models are priced at £54.95 and available now.

Models are cast in resin, painted and fitted with etched metal window frames with realistic glazing. The staircase is supplied separately for user fitting. Although based on the box at Truro, the GWR Type 7 signal box could be seen at many other locations across the GWR system.

The Great Western Railway first introduced the Type 7 signal box design in 1896 and the design was used across the network with the last of its type being built in 1927. Key features of the GWR Type 7 signal boxes were a hipped roof, ornamental eaves brackets and distinctive operating room windows with sashes divided into three upper panes and two lower (intended to improve the signalman’s view of the line).

The boxes were built of bright red bricks with Staffordshire blue brick often employed for plinths, quoins, and window surrounds. The Truro Type 7 signal box was built in 1899 as Truro East and is located at the eastern end of the station, overlooking the level crossing. It was renamed Truro in 1971 after the closure of Truro West box, when it also gained an impressive 54 lever frame from a Bristol box.

Chris Trerise, Managing Director said: “The Truro GWR Type 7 signal box is the first in a potential range of N gauge exclusive Graham Farish Scenecraft buildings, that, like our 4mm:1ft scale range, have a local connection to either one of our branches, that hopefully will be popular with N gauge modellers.”

Join more than 20,000 others who receive our weekly newsletter for the latest news, reviews, modelling advice and competitions.