Minerva Model Railways, the independent company formed by Chris Basten and the late Chris Klein, announce the production of a finescale, injection-moulded 0 gauge model of the Great Western Railway 56xx 0-6-2T in 7mm scale (1:43.5, for 32mm standard gauge).
The 56xx class was C.B.Collett’s solution to the replacement of the numerous 0-6-2 tanks from the Constituent companies merged in 1923. A lot of these were old and in need of significant work, so it was decided to replace them with the new build 5600s. 200 were bought into service very quickly, with 50 being outsourced to Armstrong Whitworth. The first locomotive was introduced in 1924, with the last four years later. All lasted into BR days, seeing out the end of steam on the Western region and slightly beyond in the North West.
Originally all were painted in plain Great Western green, with lettering appropriate for the period. Initially in BR days, they were outshopped in plain black, but later plain green was applied, and it is said that Caerphilly Works painted over 120 with BR passenger lining added.
Minerva will produce four liveries initially, and alternative safety valve covers and other optional parts will be available.
The 56xx will be built to the same general specification as Minerva’s other locomotives, GWR 57XX/8750 0-6-0PT, Kerr Stuart Victory 0-6-0T, Manning Wardle K 0-6-0ST, Peckett 0-4-0ST locomotives and the Class 14 Diesel 0-6-0
Technical Specification
- An injection-moulded body
- Over 250individual components
- Die cast metal chassis
- Fine scale wheels
- Six-wheel electrical pickup
- High-torque flywheel-equipped motor
- 40:1 precision gearbox for slow, smooth running
- Options include DC/DCC ready, DCC-fitted and DCC sound-fitted using the latest technology
- Detailed cab
- Sprung buffers and hook draw-gear with cosmetic screw couplings
- Finished in four liveries, lettered Great Western, plain green, BR unlined black and BR lined green
A bespoke DCC sound project is being developed. Design work is almost complete and the 56xx is expected to be delivered in 2024.
The retail prices, including UK VAT are expected to be:
DC – £360
DCC fitted – £415
DCC and sound fitted – £495
Advanced orders taken before the end of business on 30th September 2023 will qualify for a discount of £30. Minerva does not take deposits and payment is not taken until the models have been delivered, tested and are ready for dispatch. The models will only be available direct from Minerva Model Railways via mail and telephone order, the Minerva website and from the Minerva stand at selected model railway shows.
Excellent choice, I am pleased.
Hello Chris,
Please put my name down for a Great Western loco.
This will go wonderfully with my “Coldharbour Lane” layout, which is based on Duffryn Yard, Port Talbot.