Warbonnet

Let's face it, there is nothing more splendid when it comes to Irish steam than the GSR 800s, the Edgar Bredin masterpiece designed and built in Inchicore. The mighty 800 Class has occupied legendary status for almost 90 years. Despite a remarkably short working life, the 800s has transcended her time in service to become an icon of Irish railway history, with generations of enthusiasts wondering what it must have been like to witness her storming towards Cork with an express train in tow. Well, we can't quite recreate that. We can, however, recreate her in miniature to a standard worthy of her legendary status. We're delighted to announce that our all-new GSR 800 Class locomotives are now in full production, with completion scheduled before the end of this year before beginning their journey from China and onwards to layouts and display cabinets across the world. It's always an exciting milestone when a project reaches this stage. After countless hours of research, CAD development, tooling revisions, testing and refinement, there's something immensely satisfying about seeing thousands of individual components finally coming together on the production line. It's fair to say that the 800 Class has been one of our most eagerly anticipated projects. We've been inundated with orders and messages from modellers asking when they'll arrive, demanding sneak peeks and politely requesting updates. First up, we're finally ready to let the mighty 800 speak for herself. We've been working away on the sound project for these locomotives and we're delighted to confirm that we'll be unveiling it for the very first time in the coming weeks. Capturing the unmistakable character of this Irish icon has been a hugely enjoyable challenge and we're very much looking forward to sharing the results with you. We'll also be unveiling decorated samples which have yet to make their public debut. These latest samples represent our best look yet at the finished models and we're tremendously excited to finally pull back the curtain on them. We know many of you have been waiting patiently to see these locomotives wearing their finery and we don't think you'll be disappointed. Then there's the matter of that model. From the moment we announced No. 800 in her stunning photographic grey livery, we knew she deserved something a little special. After all, if ever there was a locomotive worthy of being treated like royalty, surely Maedb must be somewhere near the front of the queue. So, we're delighted to reveal that we'll also be showcasing the bespoke wooden presentation box created exclusively for No. 800 in photographic grey. This isn't merely packaging; it's a fitting tribute to one of the most significant locomotives in Irish railway history and provides a suitably luxurious home for what is sure to become one of the centrepieces of many collections. As production continues over the coming months, we'll be bringing you plenty more updates as we reach new milestones. Seeing Ireland's most famous steam locomotive move from announcement to production has been incredibly rewarding for the whole team and we can't wait to finally get these models into your hands. Before we go, we'd like to leave you with one final tease. No, we haven't forgotten about the Class 22000 InterCity Railcars. In fact, we've been keeping rather busy behind the scenes. We've got a very special and exciting update planned for the end of August which we're dying to share with you. In the meantime, we'll have plenty more 800 Class goodness coming your way over the next few weeks. Not ordered one? Are you mad? Order All 3 below! Pre-Order Your 800 Class Locomotive Here! View the full article

There's something rather fitting about the Manor class making a return visit. After all, these handsome mixed traffic machines spent much of their lives popping up all over the Western Region, proving themselves equally adept at just about anything that was asked of them. And now, they're ready to do it all over again on your layouts. We're delighted to report that production of our second run of GWR 78xx Manor locomotives is now complete! Better still, they've passed their final rounds of testing and inspection by the Accurascale team and are now being prepared for their voyage from China to the UK ahead of their arrival in Q3 2026. So, if you've got one on pre-order, the wait is very nearly over. Small In Stature, Big In Reputation The Manor class has always occupied something of a sweet spot in Great Western locomotive design. Introduced in 1938 under Charles Collett, the 78xx class offered much of the capability of their larger stablemates, but with a lighter axle loading that allowed them to venture where others simply couldn't. The result? A class of locomotives that seemed happy doing just about everything. From the twisting metals of the Cambrian lines to cross-country workings and secondary express duties across the Western Region, the Manor proved itself to be one of the GWR's most versatile performers. Not too big, not too small – Goldilocks would undoubtedly have approved. They've also proven to be one of our most popular steam locomotive releases, so bringing them back for a second run was always going to be high on the agenda. Thankfully, unlike finding somewhere to park an actual country manor house these days, finding space for one of these is considerably easier. Passed With Flying Colours Before any production model is given its ticket home, it undergoes comprehensive inspection and testing by the Accurascale team at the factory. We're pleased to report that this latest batch of Manors has passed with flying colours. From their exquisite decoration and fine separately fitted details through to their smooth running characteristics, lighting functions and digital sound operation, every aspect has been scrutinised to ensure they meet the standards we've set ourselves. Only once we're happy do they get their passport stamped for the journey home. With production now complete, they're currently being packed and prepared for shipment from China before beginning their sea voyage to the UK. All Ahead For Q3 As always, we'll keep you updated as they traverse the high seas before arriving at our warehouse for their final arrival inspections and subsequent dispatch to customers. It's always an exciting milestone when a project reaches this stage. Months of sampling and production work are finally giving way to the bit we enjoy most – getting models into the hands of modellers. The Manor has long since earned its reputation as one of the Great Western's finest mixed traffic locomotives. We suspect its miniature counterpart is about to strengthen its own reputation too. Pre-ordered yet? Visit your local Accurascale stockist, or place your pre-order below! Pre-Order Your Manor Here! View the full article

Good news! Fans of BR's Speedlink era and 1980s freight operations will be delighted to learn that production of our popular PCA Cement Wagons is now complete, ahead of schedule! We're delighted to confirm that both the original full rake of 15 Rugby Cement wagons and the STS grey wagons, with some carrying Sulfacrete branding for the first time, have now rolled off the production line. They're currently being prepared for shipment and are expected to arrive into stock in approximately 12 weeks' time. These distinctive wagons have been proving exceptionally popular with modellers over the years, and it's easy to see why. Offering superb detail, accurate liveries and immense operational flexibility, they're an essential addition to any 1980s BR freight layout. The iconic Rugby Cement rake captures one of the most recognisable block cement workings of the period, whilst the STS Sulfacrete branded examples provide an equally attractive alternative for those looking to recreate the varied cement traffic that characterised Britain's railway network during the decade. Better still, there's no need to choose one or the other. During the 1980s it was not uncommon to see mixed rakes in operation, making it entirely prototypical to run Rugby Cement and STS branded grey wagons together in the same train. Whether hauled in block formations, or heading up a Speedlink working, these wagons will look right at home on layouts depicting the period. With production now complete, the countdown to delivery has truly begun. Demand has been strong since launch, with stocks selling fast across the range, so if you've been considering adding these superb PCA wagons to your fleet, now is the perfect time to secure yours. At their highly competitive price point of under £70 per triple pack, they represent outstanding value while stocks last and are sure to become a staple of any BR-era freight collection. We look forward to welcoming them into our warehouse in around 12 weeks' time, ahead of schedule, and seeing the impressive cement workings they'll soon be forming on layouts across the country. Don't miss out – with production complete and demand continuing to be high, we'd recommend ordering sooner rather than later. Pre-Order Your PCA Wagons Here! View the full article

Someone once asked, "War, what is it good for?" The answer came back: "Absolutely nothing!" And while our Longmoor Military Railway train pack owes its existence to war, it's certainly something beautiful to behold. So, on this occasion at least, we may have to disagree with Mr Edwin Starr and his 1970s classic. Following our recent update on the main range of Hunslet Austerity locomotives, we're delighted to confirm that our Longmoor Military Railway train packs will also arrive in stock this September. Featuring one of our exquisite 57ft Mk.1 suburban coach pairs alongside Hunslet Austerity Saddle Tank No. 196 Errol Lonsdale in the striking Longmoor Military Railway blue livery, our first train pack captures the LMR during its most memorable era for railway enthusiasts. History of the LMR Beginning life as the Woolmer Instructional Railway in 1909, the British Army operated the Longmoor Military Railway for over sixty years as a complete strategic railway training system. Entirely self-contained, the LMR became increasingly popular with railway enthusiasts, with its famous Open Days and special trains during the 1960s influencing both its locomotive fleet and passenger rolling stock. As post-war training commitments reduced, worn-out stock was replaced rather than repaired. British Railways rolling stock was acquired by 1 Railway Group Royal Engineers, including surplus Mk.1 non-gangway compartment coaches purchased during the mid-1960s to cope with growing passenger numbers at Open Days and special events. Many were repainted into the attractive LMR Oxford Blue livery to maintain a smart and uniform appearance. The Locomotive Hunslet Works No. 3796 was completed in 1953 to the wartime Austerity design. Deemed surplus almost immediately, it spent time in storage before entering traffic in 1955, working at Honeybourne, Bicester and Longmoor throughout its career. Its first starring role came in 1965 when Longmoor was used to film The Great St Trinian's Train Robbery. Renumbered 68011 and painted black to represent a BR J94, it returned to Longmoor blue following filming, although traces of 68011 remained visible on its smokebox door! Its second film appearance came in 1967 during the filming of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Remaining in blue, the locomotive received temporary GWR tank lettering to conceal its LMR markings, a brass-painted dome cover and an impressively tall chimney extension. An interesting connection exists between Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and the railway world. Count Louis Zborowski, whose famous racing car inspired the story, was a passionate railway enthusiast and partnered with Captain J. E. P. Howey in establishing the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway, although sadly he never saw it completed. In January 1968, No. 196 was named Errol Lonsdale after Major General Errol Lonsdale, then Chief of Army Transport. It became the last locomotive to be named at Longmoor and received its distinctive white-painted wheels ahead of carrying its new nameplates. Following Longmoor's closure in 1970, 196 entered preservation, spending time on the Kent & East Sussex Railway, Mid Hants Railway and South Devon Railway, where it once again appeared in its film-star guise as 68011. Since 2009 it has resided at the Stoomcentrum in Maldegem, Belgium, restored to working order and carrying its original WD green livery. The Coaches Historical records differ slightly regarding the total number of Mk.1 coaches transferred to Longmoor, with LMR records listing thirteen vehicles while other sources suggest eighteen were transferred between 1965 and 1968. Upon arrival, all were finished in BR lined maroon, many still carrying their condemned markings. Several coaches retained their original liveries throughout their service lives, while others were repainted into either Olive Drab or the handsome LMR Oxford Blue livery during 1967 and 1968. Our models represent Brake Second ARMY 5301 (ex-M43231) and Second ARMY 3302 (ex-M46070) as they appeared in 1968 wearing LMR Oxford Blue. ARMY 5301 began life at Doncaster Works in 1954 before transferring to the LMR in February 1965. After carrying various AD prefixes, it became ARMY 5301 in 1968. Initially painted Olive Drab, it received LMR Oxford Blue in 1967 before entering preservation following Longmoor's closure. Sadly, it was scrapped in 1982. ARMY 3302 was built at Derby Works in 1954 and transferred to Longmoor in early 1968, carrying its ARMY number from the outset. Repainted into LMR Oxford Blue upon arrival, it survived only briefly after preservation, being scrapped in 1971. Delivery and Pre-Ordering As you can see from the latest images, our Longmoor Military Railway train pack is now complete and on its way to us, with delivery expected in mid-September. We have a limited quantity of this Accurascale Exclusive train pack remaining, priced at £299.95 in DC/DCC Ready form or £399.95 with factory-fitted DCC sound. Each set comes presented in special limited-edition packaging and includes an individually numbered certificate. Don't miss your chance to own this unique and evocative slice of British railway history. Pre-order yours today! View the full article

Looking forward to getting my KCs off Derek next week when I see him. I got the VT from Brian too and it’s beautifully presented, lovely model. Also picked this up a while back as I have a love for the company. 1:50 scale, it’s a stunner of a model. Cheers! Fran

Hi @GNRi Milepost 105, It all depends on demand really, but this is certainly likely to be the only production run for many years. Perhaps a professional modeller can change it for you? Cheers! Fran

Correct, one voucher per order. Aren't we being generous enough in the offer as it is?

Hi folks, Just to add context to this excellent post, it can be summarised as; "shit info in, shit product out." As @Flying Snail says, KR manufacturing is contracted to China, but then so is ours (Accurascale/IRM/Heljan) along with Bachmann, Hornby etc. It must be remembered that while China lead the way in making model trains, it's highly likely they've never seen an 071, cement bubble or A Class in their lives, no less measured one, surveyed one, scanned one etc. We get the best results by the info we put into China between research, thousands of photos, measurements, laser scan, works drawings, the lot. This takes months to accumilate, but it's vital to ensure our friends in China have the best possible base to design the model in CAD, tool it, then make it. We take our time here, critique what comes back our way and make sure its right. You only get one shot to get it right before tooling, A "measure twice, cut once" method is very much implemented. Then there is all the testing on both sides of the world to make sure it all works, wheels dont fall off, all the lighting configurations work, the sound is good, works as it should etc etc. Some skip this, and it shows in their products. Do we. get it right 100% of the time every time? No, we're only human after all. You've seen the wait for the ICR. Other companies may have had that out in the market a year ago, but it wouldnt work properly and you would be livid as a customer. Still, we do well, and our team is the most dedicated I've seen. I hope this gives some context. Cheers! Fran

Summer has arrived, and so has your chance to land some bonus savings on your next in-stock Accurascale purchase! We've fired up the Accurascale Summer Fruit Machine, giving you the opportunity to win up to 30% off across the Accurascale range of in-stock items, perfect to give yourself a little treat for the holiday season! How to play... It's simple: Visit the Accurascale website Enter your email address Pull the lever and spin the reels Reveal your exclusive discount Whether you're planning to add a new locomotive, stock up on rolling stock, or finally secure that model you've had your eye on, this is the perfect opportunity to make your budget go a little further! Once you've played the game and received your Summer prize saving - you'll get 24 hours to redeem your code - so let's strap in and start spinning! Hurry - our Summer Play & Win only lasts until 11.59pm on Friday 31st July 2026 - so visit the website here, and play while you can! What will you choose? You can spend your special summer prize savings on any of our in-stock range on Accurascale.com - whether that's our comprehensive range of locos, coaches, wagons, or even DCC accessories and our range of bespoke ModelU figures too. Visit the Accurascale homepage, and start playing! View the full article

Hi folks, Over the past 11 years, we have always shared news on our projects, once we had an update. This wont change with the 800s, and when it moves to the next stage, we will report the news then. Please also note it is the middle of summer, and we take holiday time off too! When we have news, you folks will be the first to know, we promise! Cheers! Fran

As we move closer to the arrival of our second production run of our Class 50, we wanted to share a quick update on progress and highlight some of the refinements that have been made since the production samples were completed. First and foremost, we're delighted with how this second run has turned out. The overall build quality and finish are simply superb, with the factory delivering an exceptionally high standard of assembly, decoration and detailing. This is thanks to your feedback on run 1, where the build quality could've been better in one or two areas. We took this feedback back to the factory, and worked with them to improve the quality on our Hoovers, so we could bring you and elite Class 50. The models really showcase just how far production has come, and we're confident these will be the best models of a Class 50s yet, or indeed possible. Alongside the already impressive standard of finish, we've also worked with the factory to make further improvements in a number of areas. In particular, the paint finish around the multiple working sockets has been refined to provide an even sharper appearance. As is often the case with production samples, they serve their purpose by allowing us to identify the final details that need correcting before the full production run is completed. Thanks to the thorough inspection process, we've been able to implement the following changes on the finished models: Windscreen Wipers The production samples feature the windscreen wipers parked in the incorrect position. On the finished models, all wipers will be correctly positioned at rest in the centre of the windscreens. Fortunately, this was identified in time for production to be amended, although the completed samples had already been built. No. 50029 Wiper Arrangement Our production sample of 50029 has an incorrect single wiper fitted at the No. 1 end. This has been corrected for production, with the finished model receiving the correct double-arm pantograph windscreen wipers at both ends. No. 50035 Marker Lights The production sample of 50035 is fitted with white marker lights. On the finished production models these will instead be clear, accurately matching the prototype. These are relatively minor changes, but they're exactly the sort of details we're committed to getting right. Production samples are an essential part of the development process, allowing us to identify and rectify issues before models reach customers. We're incredibly pleased with the overall quality of this second production run, and with these final corrections now in place, we're looking forward to delivering what we believe will be the finest ready-to-run OO gauge Class 50 models produced to date. Thank you, as always, for your continued support and enthusiasm. We can't wait for you to have these superb locomotives in your hands. Our second production run of Class 50s will be completed in the coming weeks, and then they will be packed and shipped to the UK. Pre-Order Your Class 50 Here! View the full article

While I wont be there myself, the Accuracale and Heljan teams will be in attendance. Do pop by and say hi!

We wanted to provide you with a quick update on our forthcoming Hunslet Austerity locomotives. The good news is that production was actually completed a couple of weeks ago, with samples arriving with us shortly after, for assessment and sign-off. However, there has been a slight delay before shipping due to an issue affecting the supply of the electronic components required for the DCC decoders and PCBs. Like many industries, we've been impacted by the ongoing global demand for electronic components. Much of this shortage has been driven by the huge increase in demand for hardware destined for AI data centres, which has placed additional pressure on the wider electronics supply chain. Thankfully, the situation which affected our partner, ESU, is now under control . The required decoders and PCB components are now arriving at the factory. The PCB components are being assembled onto the PCB and the decoders are being assembled and fitted to the locomotives. They are also being tested ahead of shipment. The completed models will begin shipping from the factory over the coming days. We now expect the Hunslet Austerity range to arrive into stock during mid to late September 2026. This includes our LMR Train Pack. We're very sorry for this short delay. We know many of you are eagerly awaiting these models, and while the circumstances were unfortunately beyond our control, we're pleased that the issue has now been resolved and everything is moving once again. As you'll see from the latest images, we think the short additional wait will be more than worthwhile. The finished locomotives look absolutely superb, and we can't wait to get them into your hands. Thank you, as always, for your patience and continued support. Fancy one? Pre-order your Austerity below! Pre-Order Your Hunslet Austerity Here! View the full article

On behalf of everyone at IRM we would like to extend our sincere condolences to David's family, fellow club members and friends. Although very much a continental modeller in N, he would visit us at every show both home and abroad that he attended, and offer us his best wishes and words of encouragement. A sad loss to our hobby and community. RIP David.

Just to point out folks, this does not affect Accurascale. IRM or indeed Heljan purchases. Cheers! Fran