Heljan reveals Class 56 livery artwork for 'O'

Upon the 'soft' launch of its new UK website (www.heljan.co.uk), the Danish manufacturer has revealed its choice of liveries for its Class 56 Co-Co, deliveries of which are expected later this year.

Heljan's model will represent the Doncaster and Crewe-built locomotives from 56070 to 56135, allowing the most numerous of liveries to be portrayed. Thus far, Heljan has confirmed that pre-orders of its blue liveries are strongest, though Railfreight and sector liveries are sure to prove equally popular with modellers. The liveries confirmed are as follows:

In addition, for retailer Tower Models of Blackpool, an 11th variant of unbranded Railfreight triple grey is to be provided, allowing modellers to represent Transrail iterations of the Class. 

The news follows its Class 56 feedback survey from CAD images shared with the public and confirms that the model is on track for delivery soon. Heljan was also quick to post a video of a pre-production sample on test hauling HAA coal hoppers on what is set to become Britain's largest model railway, 'Heaton Lodge':

When announced, the ready-to-run model specifications were as follows: two rotating roof fans and provision for smoke unit, a detailed cab interior, complete with internal brace detail and two powerful five-pole motors with flywheels. In addition, optional customer-fit cabside air-conditioning grille and 'grid' are to be provided below the bufferbeam. Detailed bogies with authentic main frame shape, two cab door handrail options, etched diamond pattern see-through grilles are also expected. LED head, tail and cab lights, screwlink couplings, optional NRN aerial on cab roof, DCC-friendly PCB with screw terminals are also to feature.

For current pre-order pricing and availability, visit see local Heljan stockist, or visit the new Heljan UK website.