Rapido Trains UK launches Titfield Thunderbolt range
Rapido Trains UK is to release a range of ‘OO’ gauge models inspired by the classic Ealing comedy film, The Titfield Thunderbolt.
This much-loved movie follows the story of a group of villagers determined to save their local branch line from closure by British Railways in the 1950s, despite opposition and sabotage along the way. It was the first Ealing comedy to be filmed in colour and was released in 1953.
Developed with the full co-operation of STUDIOCANAL, which owns the rights to the film, five new models are in the pipeline including an accurate model of Thunderbolt (in reality, the ex-Liverpool and Manchester Railway 0-4-2 Lion), Great Eastern Railway Diagram 603 buffet car No. 8, GWR ‘Toad’ Diagram ‘AA20’ brake van W68740, GWR ‘Loriot Y’ 41989 with fictitious Victorian coach body (‘Dan’s House’) and Bedford OB, GAM 338 with Duple Vista body in full Pearce and Crump colours.
Planned for release in time to celebrate the movie's 70th anniversary in March 2023, the models are due to be issued in a selection of packs including a standard example comprising Thunderbolt, GWR ‘Loriot Y’ with 'Dan's House' and 'Toad' brake van W68740, together with a deluxe pack containing a digital sound-fitted Thunderbolt, GWR ‘Loriot Y’ with ‘Dan's House’, 'Toad' W68740, plus 4mm scale figures and a commemorative booklet. A third pack will be available containing the buffet car, ‘Toad’ W68740 and 4mm scale figures. The Bedford OB coach will be offered as a standalone model.
Development work is already underway with Thunderbolt (Lion), the 'Toad' brake van, GWR 'Loriot Y' and the Victorian carriage ('Dan's House') currently at the CAD drawing stage, while the Great Eastern Railway/Wisbech and Upwell carriage and Bedford OB are still at the research stage of the process. Lion will be issued in post-1928 condition and the Bedford OB is expected to feature working lights, poseable front wheels and full interior detail. It is anticipated that the models will also appear in other prototypical liveries.
Prices and delivery schedule are yet to be confirmed.
Visit www.rapidotrains.co.uk for more information.
