Locomotion Models and Rails of Sheffield reveal V2 commission for 'OO'

The partnership of Locomotion Models and Rails of Sheffield has announced four new model commissions of the LNER V2 Class 2-6-2 locomotives from Bachmann Europe Plc. Two models of Green Arrow are being produced for Locomotion Models, and two with Durham and Yorkshire connections are being produced for Rails of Sheffield.

The Prototype
The Gresley V2 Class 2-6-2 locomotives were designed for mixed traffic use in 1935, going through various modifications before construction of the first five locomotives commenced in 1936. 184 V2 Class locomotives were built in eleven batches between 1936 and 1944, of which eight were named. They were allocated mainly to depots along the East Coast Main Line between London and Aberdeen and also on the former Great Central main line. The V2s were used for fast freight trains and passenger workings, particularly during WWII, where they put in some impressive performances, often on workings replacing Gresley 'Pacific' classes.

Following the cessation of hostilities, the track on the ECML was run down and the first of several derailments took place, requiring the replacement of the front bogie truck which was undertaken on all members of the class. Withdrawals commenced in February 1962 and by December 1966, the final locomotive had been taken out of service. The first locomotive to enter traffic, Green Arrow, was withdrawn from Kings Cross shed in August 1962 and was subsequently preserved becoming a member of the National Collection. It is currently on display at Locomotion, Shildon.

The model
The OO scale model has been developed for Locomotion Models and Rails of Sheffield by Bachmann Europe Plc and utilises the all new tooling which has been developed by the manufacturer. A 21-pin decoder socket is mounted in the locomotive and the model is provided with a pre-fitted speaker in the tender for ease of digital sound installation. The locomotive and tender have a custom designed interconnection, giving a through electrical connection.

The model comes with a realistic firebox flicker, sprung buffers, etched nameplates and NEM coupling pockets. All models are fitted with five-pole motors. DCC sound options are available for each model.

Four exclusive edition locomotives are being produced as follows:

For Locomotion Models

35-204NRM No. 4771 ‘Green Arrow’ in LNER green livery

35-205NRM No. 60800 ‘Green Arrow’ in BR green livery.

For Rails of Sheffield
Both locomotives chosen by Rails Of Sheffield have connections to the Durham and Yorkshire areas.

35-201Z No. 4843 ‘Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry’ in LNER livery.

This locomotive was built in April 1939 at Doncaster. It was named the following month, it continued in traffic as 60872 until withdrawal in September 1963. The name was transferred to Deltic Class locomotive (later Class 55) Co-Co diesel D9002 on April 4, 1963 during a ceremony at York station.

35-203Z No. 60964 ‘Durham Light Infantry’ in BR green livery with late crest.

This locomotive was built at Darlington in January 1943. It was named in April 1958 and was withdrawn from service in May 1965. The name was transferred to Deltic Class locomotive (later Class 55) Co-Co diesel D9017 on October 29, 1963 during a ceremony at Durham station.