Locomotion Models reveals decorated samples of new Class 41 HSDT

The new model, which can be pre-ordered today for just a £30 deposit from the Locomotion Models website, is the first of the new Railway Icons brand. 

Produced in partnership with Rails of Sheffield, the two had previously worked together to introduce  models to the National Collection in Miniature, including Hardwicke, D Class, Terrier and, most recently, the NER ES1.

Traditionally, Locomotion Models has produced models in the condition in which they are preserved in the National Collection, while Rails of Sheffield produced alternative but authentic versions as they appeared in traffic prior to preservation. The new Railway Icons brand allows Locomotion to produce models both within and outside of the National Collection that will be of interest to both modellers and collectors.

The prototype High Speed Diesel Train (HSDT), British Rail Class 252, was devised by staff at the Railway Technical Centre in Derby. The prototype power cars were built at British Rail Engineering Limited at Crewe Works in 1972 with the Mark 3 coaches constructed at BREL Derby Litchurch Lane. After extensive trials on the Western Region, the production versions of the trains (with redesigned cab fronts) consisting of 197 power cars entered service in 1977. Initially, they were only in traffic on Western Region lines, but were eventually used on the East Coast, Midland and Cross Country routes.

Until the introduction of the Hitachi Class 800 series of bi-mode trains to GWR in 2017, the HSDTs were the main stay of services on non-electrified lines. During the privatisation of railways between 1995 and 1997, 193 power cars carried the liveries of several operators before their withdrawal. These trains have subsequently undergone extensive refurbishments, with three different types of diesel engine fitted during major overhaul works. Now, after many years of service, some remain in traffic with ScotRail and GWR.

Expected to arrive next summer, the Class 41 Prototype HSDT is priced at £199.99 and can be reserved with a £30 deposit on the Locomotion Models website today!