The Modernisation Plan of the 1950s created huge interest, with many clamouring to model the latest trains. Hornby Dublo was quick off the mark and often produced models even before the prototypes had taken to the rails, as EVAN GREEN-HUGHES relates.
Above and below: The BR ‘4MT’ 2-6-4T gave Hornby Dublo a mid-range tank engine which was up to date. The model became available in 1954, midway through production of the fleet of 155 locomotives for BR. On July 31 1965, 80037 departs Evercreech Junction with the 4.18pm Templecombe-Bath Green Park. Hugh Ballantyne/Railphotoprints.uk.
IT IS probably very hard today for us to understand the widespread interest in railways in the postwar period. After the dreary war years, nationalisation had brought with it the hopes and dreams of a population seeking a better way for the future. Travel, which once had been restricted, was freely available once again and Ian Allan’s famous locospotter’s books became a must-have for every child. Modernisation of the railways, which started with the introduction of BR’s Standard steam locomotives and improved carriages, and soon moved on to diesel and electric traction, only helped to fuel further interest. Naturally, railway modellers wanted to refle…
