Hornby continues to release models of its brand new OO-gauge ‘Terrier’ model, the latest to review being Southern Railway A1X 0-6-0T No. 2662.
One of eight brand new models of the Stroudley ‘Terrier’ A1X Class locomotive being produced by Hornby this year is that of SR No. 2662, finished in Southern Railway green with white lining and yellow numbers.
This particular locomotive was a regular on the short Hayling Island branch which diverged from the Portsmouth Direct Line at Havant, being one of many ‘Terriers’ to dominate the line from around 1890 until its closure by British Railways in 1963.
The continued use of such elderly steam locomotives was dictated by the bridge which carried the line on to the island. Langstone Harbour swing bridge was constructed of timber,
and its relative frailty, combined with some sharp curves, made the lightweight, short-wheelbase ‘Terriers’ the perfect traction.
The cost of major repairs to the bridge and the replacement of ageing rolling stock determined the line’s demise, not to mention the withdrawal of the remaining ‘Terrier’ locomotives operated by BR.
Read more and view more images in the August issue of RMM – available now!
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