October 2022 marked exactly 25 years since the first issue of Model Rail magazine appeared, but it also marked a quarter-century since our first exclusive model was released. To coincide with Model Rail launching as a standalone title in 1997 (having previously been an occasional supplement within RAIL magazine), we commissioned Hornby to produce a limited run of Class 90 locomotives in Virgin Trains livery, portraying 90002 Mission Impossible.
Since then, we’ve created over 130 individual models in partnership with various manufacturers, including Bachmann Europe, Dapol, Heljan, Hornby, Lima, Vi-Trains and Rapido. Many have been exclusive livery options or themed packages, such as ScotRail or Regional Railways-branded coaching stock, or renditions of celebrity locomotives including Class 40 D200 or LNER No. 5511 Marne.
A particular theme that proved extremely popular was the ‘Satlink’ range of engineers’ wagons, sporting an eye-catching yellow and red livery, which replicated a scheme adopted by British Rail during the 1980s. Everything from a humble 12t box van to a well wagon and even a Mk 1 GUV van was turned out in this scheme over several years. Produced in small numbers, these models - like all previous Model Rail Exclusives - have become highly collectable.
A motorised track cleaner, Strathclyde Transport diesel multiple units, a medley of unusual Class 66 liveries and Class 91 91110 in the wonderful RAF Memorial Flight pictorial livery are just some of the diverse models that have only been available via Model Rail over the years. It hasn’t just been trains either, as we have offered a selection of ready-made buildings too, including a Midland Railway signal box and a GWR ‘pagoda’ waiting shelter.
Since 2011, we began producing entirely new toolings, beginning with our enduringly popular LNER ‘Y1/Y3’ Sentinel 4wVBT, ‘USA’ 0-6-0T, LNER Class J70 and, most recently, with the Hawksworth ‘16XX’ 0-6-0T. Offering modellers something truly unique has been a real thrill for the Model Rail team and we have many more projects currently in the pipeline, including the Class 48, Ruston ‘PWM’ 0-6-0 and Class 11/12 diesel shunters in ‘OO’ gauge, plus the Vale of Rheidol 2-6-2T steam locomotives, which will mark our first foray into narrow gauge models.
With even more new projects due to be announced in the coming months, it’s a very exciting time at Model Rail, so keep an eye on the news pages in the magazine every month for the latest updates.
To see the full range of models currently in stock - that you can only buy from us - go to www.modelrailoffers.co.uk or call 01209 705459.