Heljan reveals hand-painted sample of O gauge 'Grid'

Heljan has shared images of its first engineering prototype of its forthcoming O gauge Class 56 'Grid', painted by skilled modeller Brian Daniels into classic BR large logo blue.

The photographs highlight the detail, so characteristic of the prototype, particularly its bogies. International events permitting, the manufacturer expects the model to arrive with retailers in early-2021. Eight versions are in preparation, covering the BR, Sectorisation and Trainload Freight periods.

Heljan UK representative, Ben Jones commented, "This first sample is an important part of the process to design, refine and approve our new model before it goes into production. As always, it is not the finished article and work is already underway to refine and correct areas which do not meet the required standards. It’s an imposing machine, like the full size ‘56’ and packed with the characteristic heavy duty detail that will be so familiar to the type’s many fans."

Models to be produced are as follows:

#5600 BR blue unnumbered

#5601 BR large logo blue unnumbered

#5602 Railfreight large logo grey unnumbered

#5603 Railfreight Red Stripe unnumbered

#5604 Railfreight three tone grey unbranded

#5605 Railfreight Coal Sector grey 56101 Mutual Improvement WEATHERED

#5606 Railfreight Construction Sector grey 56110 Croft

#5607 Loadhaul black/orange unnumbered

See your local Heljan stockist or the Heljan facebook page for regular updates on these models.