Kernow to produce GBRf Class 50s for 'N'

Model retailer, Kernow Model Rail Centre has commissioned Dapol to produce two N gauge Class 50 models in GBRf colours. Kernow Model Rail Centre's model will reflect the dual-identity, as well as faithfully re-creating the small but important differences between the livery of the two locomotives. 50007 Hercules and 50049 Defiance were unveiled on March 20, 2019 at Eastleigh following their repainting into GBRf colours. 50007 was revealed to have the identity of 50014 Warspite on one side.

Expected mid-2021, models in the twin-pack are to be made available in DCC-ready, DCC-fitted and DCC sound-fitted guises.

GBRf worked closely with the Class 50 Alliance, owners of 50007 and 50049, enabling a return to the mainline for its locomotives in 2017 and subsequently through a programme of railtours during 2018 as part of the 50^th anniversary celebrations of the Class 50s. The decision to repaint the locomotives into the new livery was a recognition of the developing relationship between the two organisations and marked a new chapter in the story of the Class 50s. Over the past few years, GBRf has invested in a programme of driver training to enable Class 50 operation over most of the UK rail network.

The repaints were carried out by Arlington Fleet Services at Eastleigh. The first outing for the GBRf-liveried Class 50s was on Saturday March 23, when they worked Pathfinder Tours’ Teminator-Phoenixed railtour from London Paddington to Penzance and return to Waterloo. This marked 25 years since the final BR-operated Class 50 railtour over the same route, The Terminator, which was also promoted by Pathfinder.

Following the repaints, the locomotives have been available to operate select GBRf trains on a ‘spot-hire’ basis. This work includes movement of locomotives between heritage railway gala events, and future railtours. The locomotives will continue to be based at the Severn Valley Railway, but will have easy access to the national network, thanks to the 24hr connection at Kidderminster.

For further details, current pricing and availability, visit the Kernow Model Rail Centre website.