Battery Electric Locomotive from Connoisseur Models

Specialist O gauge kit manufacturer, Connoisseur Models, is to release a new etched kit to depict LMS No. 1550 / BR B.E.L. No. 1.

The prototype was built by the Midland Railway and worked at its coal depot near West India Dock in Poplar, East London between 1913 and 1964. No rail access to the depot, with only a hydraulic wagon hoist to get on site meant the size, height and weight of the locomotive had to be small to use the hoist for maintenance or overhauls. A number of similar locomotives were produced to suit similarly compact industrial locations.

Jim McGeown, proprietor of Connoisseur Models said "The kit is ideal to use up motors and wheel sets that customers may find in their useful bits boxes, particularly if they once modelled in 00 gauge. The kit is designed to use a set of standard eight-spoke wagon wheels, with a small motor and 1/8in axle gearset. Alternatively, instructions contain comprehensive recommendations of options and sources."

The main body and chassis components are etched brass with cast white metal fittings. The printed instruction booklet is based around step-by-step photographs of a complete build of a sample model complemented by images of all etched parts to aid identification. The instructions are also available to view and download from the website to judge suitability of the kit for the uninitiated. For current pricing and availability, visit its website.