The Earl in GWR green. (Lining: optional extra.)
The Earl in GWR green. (Lining: optional extra.)
Built in 1902 by Beyer Peacock, "The Earl" and "Countess" were the original two locomotives that operated the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway from its opening in 1903. In fact, they ran the railway single handed until 1956.
In 1929/30, by which time the railway was in the hands of the Great Western, each loco received a new boiler and an extended cab. They were also 'enhanced', Swindon style, with copper-capped chimneys, and with large steam domes and brass safety valve covers atop the new boilers.
It is this final condition in which they can be seen today, and which this scale model depicts.
 The Earl in action |
The model, available as either "The Earl" or "Countess", is built from the highest quality materials and is enhanced with brass castings. The cab is constructed from etched brass and faithfully reproduces all the rivets and fine details of the original locomotive.
Steam is raised in an internally gas fired boiler and the locomotive uses piston valve cylinders. Control is by twin channel radio; one channel to work the modified Walschaerts valve gear for direction, the other channel controlling the speed. The radio is powered by rechargeable batteries as standard.
The engine has been designed for ease of servicing. The cab roof lifts up to reveal the gas filler turret, the boiler filler cap and the lubricator filler cap. Both filler caps are knurled for ease of handling. The boiler has a water level check valve. The lubricator has a drain valve under the footplate.
This is a model of showcase standard but designed for frequent running for your pleasure.
