Model railways Books

Book SynopsisIn railway modelling, getting the technical components correct is essential for a realistic-looking layout but, unfortunately, these often present the biggest challenges for the hobbyist. Using his own experience as a railway modeller and electronics engineer, Andrew Duckworth provides a guide suitable for all railway modellers, from beginners to the more experienced. With instructions on how and where to use specialist electronic circuits to enhance your layout, this book will help you to achieve a reasonably sophisticated layout. It provides: an overview of the geometry required for building successful model railways; clear explanations of electronics and electrical components; comparisons of direct control and digital command control (DCC); step-by-step instructions for wiring the track, signals, buildings and lighting; reviews of electrical systems, power supplies, wires and cable, control panels and switches and finally, it covers detection, testing and troubleshooting tips.Trade ReviewPut simply, if there's something you think you could electrify on your layout, then this book will show you how to do it * Model Rail Magazine *

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Book SynopsisOnce seen as a niche practice, the craft of weathering has now become firmly rooted in the railway modelling mainstream. Not simply a means of rendering models in layers of dirty paint, weathering involves a myriad of techniques aimed at improving realism, including distinctive surface textures, highlights and shading, burnishing and peeling paint finishes. The weathering process beings out the best in a model, making moulded relief or a lustrous livery really stand out. As well as replicating the real world more closely, weathering also helps a model to look at home within a scenic setting. Aimed at modellers of all abilities and eras, this book is an essential guide to creating the most realistic locomotives and rolling stock in any scale.

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Book SynopsisThis book demonstrates the many different modelling techniques used in the creation of realistic historical buildings and convincing imaginary or fantasy structures. Aimed at the railway and diorama modeller, it includes photographs of existing structures, detailed illustrations and plans, followed by step-by-step photographs of the various stages in their creation; practical tips and constructive advice are provided alongside. Special emphasis has been placed on the use of scrap and low-cost materials. It gives guidance on modelling imaginary buildings and structures, with an example project presented from start to finish and also a complete fantasy-based model railway diorama, from concept and design through to the completed layout is covered. The author has written this book to inspire the modeller to try something innovative, and to attract new entrants to this creative hobby. Drawing on his own experience, he shares practical guidance to help the reader to produce models they will be proud of.Trade ReviewThis book is as inspirational as it is informative, and we rather hope that the author continues to delve into the historical and imaginary in his future projects. If he does, we’ll certainly be eager to see what’s next on his hobby table! -- James Griffiths * Wargames Illustrated *

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Book SynopsisAlthough most people have heard of laser-cut and 3-D printed model railway parts and kits, most modellers have little knowledge or experience of them. This fascinating and well-illustrated book describes in non-technical language how these machines work and how railway modellers can use them to produce remarkable models for their layouts. With reference to the different modelling scales, the author discusses in detail the advantages and disadvantages of different types of machines, and the materials they employ. He also shows how beginners can install and use 'Sketchup Make', a free CAD (Computer Aided Design) program from the Internet. With step-by-step instructions and accompanying photographs, the author takes the modeller through the early stages of using this program before providing many examples of how to design model railway related items such as laser-cut roofing tiles, palisade fencing, brickwork, and the detailed elements of station awning. In addition, he demonstrates how to create 3-D printed furniture, barrels, packing crates, guttering and down pipes, rivet heads, and a workman's hut.

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Book SynopsisThis fascinating volume tells you everything you need to know about how to build an 00 gauge Tilbury Tank locomotive or, indeed, any similar type of tank. Written in an engaging, encouraging and easily understable style, this new work is a worthy successor to the author's first book, Scratch-Building Model Railway Locomotives, which was short-listed for the Ian Allan Railway Book of the Year Awards in 2014. Containing scale diagrams, step-by-step photos, sketches and specially commissioned artwork, the book celebrates the history of Tilbury Tanks and demonstrates a range of different techniques that will prove invaluable in constructing models of these charismatic little locomotives. If you have not yet taken the plunge and begun scratch-building, or if you want to complement your growing scratch-building skills and knowledge, this is the book for you.

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Book SynopsisDespite modern appearances, colour light signalling has been around since the 1920s and is just as full of subtle details and variations as 'traditional' semaphore signalling. The inclusion of a working signalling system within a model railway layout is technically challenging but adds realism and 'wow' factor. This new book contains a brief history of the development and deployment of colour light signalling in the UK; a basic explanation of how track design influences signalling design; an overview of the different types of point motor and, finally, descriptions of the different components that make up a signalling system and how these components are used and controlled. It is an extensive guide to developing and adding realistic colour light signalling to a model railway layout.

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Book SynopsisDesigned specifically for modellers of the modern scene, this new book provides a comprehensive reference to all the livieries that have come and gone on the network since the wholesale privatisation of the mid 1990s.It is now more than 70 years since the first DMUs made their first appearance on the British railway system and more than 50 years since DMUs were introduced onto the BR network in large numbers. From the late 1950s onwards several thousand DMU vehicles were brought into service as replacement for steam services over branches and secondary routes and from the mid-1980s onwards this first generation of DMU was gradually replaced by a second-generation of DMU although the final elimination of the first-generation units did not occur until the first years of the 21st century. On the privatised railway of the 21st century, virtually all non-electrified passenger services are now operated by DMUs of one design or another and, on the preserved railways, many examples of the firs

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Book Synopsis_Building the Wooden Fighting Ship_ is a fascinating account of the building of an historic ship, as well as a vivid and often surprising account of life and labour in the eighteenth century. In an age before industrialisation, the warship was the most complex object built by man and employed the most advanced technology of its time. Naval vessels of the period were, not surprisingly, so expensive to construct that meticulous records were kept, from the purchasing of timbers to the last details of their furnishings and armament, including even the individual names of some of the shipwrights and craftsmen. By carefully studying these records, the authors have reconstructed, in extraordinary detail, the building of HMS Thunderer -a two-decked, 74-gun ship-of-the-line. In words and specially drawn illustrations, contemporary prints and paintings, the authors show every stage of the building of this ship, from the purchase and cutting of timbers right through to the launch in 1760\. There are descriptions of Woolwich dockyard where she was built and details of all the skills and trades involved in her construction. First published in 1984, this book is a beautiful and highly informative work on a significant aspect of the Royal Navy and will appeal to enthusiasts, modellers, historians and anyone with an interest in traditional crafts.

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Book SynopsisWeathering is not just about making something look dirty. Rather, it should be seen as an artistic endeavour, with the aim of making a model appear as lifelike as possible. It also helps to blend a range of separate structures into a cohesive scene. Careful weathering brings out the best in even the most mundane model, drawing attention to moulded relief and enhancing surface textures. In this latest volume, expert modeller George Dent shares his theories and practices on the art of weathering buildings, motor vehicles, ships and all manner of scenic features.

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Book SynopsisThis beautifully illustrated and practical book covers a wide variety of materials and processes, and tells you everything you need to know about building model railway coaches. Master modeller, George Dent, guides the reader through the necessary techniques and skills. All aspects of the subject are covered from kit building in metal, plastic, resin and wood; soldering, weathering, painting and lining; 3-D printed kits and components; adding passengers to the carriages; upgrading off-the-shelf models; kit assembly, scratch-building and finishing.

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Book SynopsisModel railway baseboards are like the foundations of a house, and failure to build a rigid baseboard that has no movement will inevitably lead to problems. Accordingly, this invaluable, well-illustrated book is essential reading for all those who wish to be guided through the potential pitfalls of making a baseboard and who require practical information about the different kinds of boards and how to construct them properly. Describes in detail how to build several different types of baseboards from the simple box frame, through the monocoque flat board, the drop board and insulation board, to multi-level boards and the helix. With the less adept modeller in mind, the author also explains how to make a baseboard with only a drill, a screwdriver and glue.

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Book SynopsisEuropean railways are characterized by a huge and contrasting range of locomotives, liveries, rolling stock, stations and infrastructure. In addition, the network incorporates standard, narrow and broad gauges, private and nationalized railways, high-speed corridors, single-track branch lines and rack systems. If that was not appealing enough for the railway modeller, these fascinating railways are also located in dramatically diverse landscapes ranging from the industrial Ruhr to the majestic Alps. If you wish to explore the new and exciting railway modelling opportunities that Europe has to offer, if you need a helping hand and information about where to go, what to read and what to buy, then this is the book for you.

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Book Synopsis From the bestselling author of Everything Is Beautiful, comes an utterly heartwarming new novel, about what it truly means to belong to those you love.''A warm-hearted, emotional read'' Daily Mail''Gripping, endearing and thought-provoking, this beautifully woven novel championing family, solidarity and friendship is full of warmth and heart. A joy from start to finish - one not to miss'' HOLLY MILLER''Joyful and tender'' Woman''s Own''The Art of Belonging is just the loveliest, uplifting novel and fills the soul with joy'' LORNA COOK''A delightful, big-hearted story of family and forgiveness'' Good Housekeeping''Heartfelt and heartwarming, this uplifting read is full of characters to cherish and cheer for'' PHAEDRA PATRICK ................................................ Sometimes you need to ope

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Book SynopsisWith colour photographs and 30 diagrams, this book takes the beginner through the necessary stages and processes in painting a model engineering subject. It includes: selection and making of equipment, paint, preparation, spray and hand painting, fixing blemishes, lining, transfers, tips on how to look after the paintwork, and a list of suppliers.Trade Review"This is quite simply the best practical book for model engineers we have seen for decades. Model Engineer Magazine - 2007 This book will not only appeal to locomotive builders but to the builder of ANY model that requires a decent paint finish. A MUST HAVE book if ever there was one. Engineering in Miniature Magazine - 2007"Table of ContentsChapter 1 Introduction; Chapter 2 Equipment & Making a Spray Booth; Chapter 3 Paint; Chapter 4 Preparation; Chapter 5 Spray Painting; Chapter 6 Hand Painting; Chapter 7 Fixing Blemishes; Chapter 8 Lining; Chapter 9 Transfers; Chapter 10 Looking After the Paint; Summary A Quick Reminder; Appendix 1 List of Suppliers; Appendix 2 Glossary.

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Book SynopsisDemonstrates detailed build processes in image and text. Provides a suggested structure to your decision making. Covers a variety of projects and material types. Allows the reader to get under the covers of model construction. Includes upcycling and saving older models.

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Book SynopsisInformative Text & all classes covered

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Book SynopsisEarly Railways A Modellers Guide will encourage and support the modelling of the earliest period of railway history, from the very beginnings of steam traction at the start of the nineteenth century, up to about 1880; a period which for British modellers has scarcely been covered in book form. Over these few decades the railways evolved from something, which at the start was markedly different, into a scene that any present-day railwayman would recognise. It is a time with much to commend it from a modellers point of view. The trains were much shorter and therefore easier to fit into the limited space most of us have available as, correspondingly, were the station layouts, especially at the beginning of the period. Instead of at least 12 or 13 feet for a modern steam express, and a minimum curve radius of 6 feet, an 1840 express of a loco and a dozen carriages might be no more than about 6 feet long and, behind the scenes at least, can take curves of no more than 2 or 3 feet radius, as well as being able to instantly catch the eye of the viewer.

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Book SynopsisThis book illustrates a journey through Amberdale, as it might have been in the 1890s. Encompassing a wide variety of scene, Amberdale is nevertheless the smallest of the dales—by far, for Amberdale is a model, dreamt up in the mind of its creator and built over a period of some 60 years. Following the river and the railway through the dale, the pictures bring to life the half forgotten age of the horse and the steam engine, the unspoiled countryside, the quiet charm of the villages, the bustle of a market town and the industrial urgency of late Victorian England. The book describes an extensive and impressive model, yet emphasises that it is not dependant on particular modelling skills or extensive academic research, but on imagination and enthusiasm. It suggests an adventure of any extent open to anyone, and it is hoped that the pictures will entertain and inspire those who build models and. those who do not. The trains wind through the valley, the trams rattle along the streets, the mill wheel turns under the elms.… Welcome to Amberdale.

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Book SynopsisThe 00 gauge train set was the ultimate ‘boy’s toy’ of the 1950s and ’60s. Electric 00 gauge trains were introduced by Trix and Hornby Dublo in the mid-1930s, but the Second World War quickly halted production. However, they burst back onto the post-war scene with great success, and 00 quickly became the dominant scale in Britain, and was taken up by other large manufacturers including Tri-ang. Whilst the components of the sets themselves were often basic, they could be transformed into astonishing landscapes in the hands of imaginative builders. The sheer number of box sets, locomotives, rolling stock, buildings and accessories gave everyone the ability to form a bespoke layout. This beautifully illustrated introduction to the heyday of clockwork and electric 00 gauge trains tells their story up until 1975, when finer detailing and changing trends led to them becoming enthusiasts’ models rather than children’s toys.Trade ReviewI feel like a gap in my education has now been filled... an interesting and informative read. * MODEL RAIL *Table of ContentsForeword by Richard Lines Introduction The Beginning to 1945 Post-war Austerity: Smaller Companies Post-war Hornby Dublo and Trix The Giant Awakes: Enter Tri-Ang European HO Gauge in Britain Tri-Ang Hornby and Hornby Railways 1966–75 Beyond 1975 Appendices: Accessories; Retailers; Bertram Otto Places to Visit Further Reading Index

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Book SynopsisThere are more than 400 miniature railways in Britain. Some are hidden away and privately owned, others are parkland attractions, and some – such as the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch – are large commercial enterprises. They come in an array of gauges (from 5 inches up to 15 inches and sometimes beyond), but their most definitive characteristic is that they can carry passengers, whether sitting astride the rolling stock or inside enclosed carriages. In this colourfully illustrated guide, David Henshaw offers a concise history of miniature railways from the nineteenth century to the modern day, including a whistle-stop tour of the most notable examples open to the public – including the Ravenglass & Eskdale and Eastleigh Lakeside railways – exploring their layouts, engineering and rolling stock.Trade ReviewRecommended. * Ffestiniog Railway Magazine *Table of ContentsIntroduction The 5-inch Railway 7¼-inch Gauge 8-inch to 12-inch Gauge 12¼-inch to 15-inch Gauge Further Reading Places to Visit Index

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Book SynopsisThis comprehensive book is aimed at all those railway modellers who wish to create a realistic model of a branch line. First of all it examines the origins, developments and future of branch lines in Britain and then provides useful insights into how to select a suitable branch line to model. It discusses in detail how to create scenic realism and an appropriate setting for the model, with reference to the landscape, the infrastructure, the lineside and the use of authentic colour. Detailed information about a selection of several real, and some fictitious, branch lines are presented in order to inspire the modeller and help him to select a suitable subject to lovingly recreate. Finally, track plans and superb drawings of the whole scene are shown which provides the modeller with a visual intepretation of what the completed model should look like.

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Book SynopsisMany railway modellers include an engine shed somewhere on their layout. However, all too often the shed is squeezed into a quite improbable location and is little more than a place to 'park' engines when they are not in use. This well-illustrated and comprehensive book, written by an experienced railway modeller, helps even the beginner to develop a far more realistic approach and to capture the unforgettable grimy but exciting atmosphere of the locomotive shed in the steam era.

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Book SynopsisIf you want to recreate in realistic model form some of the excitement of watching trains by the lineside - then this is the book for you. It contains several photographs of the available relevant products and includes numerous step-by-step illustrations, with accompanying text, that demonstrate how to build the many features of the lineside, either from kits or from scratch. Moreover, all the various aspects of modelling the lineside are brought together in four layout projects covering typical lineside scenes from the steam era right up to the present.

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Book SynopsisThis informative book provides a step-by-step account of the construction, from scratch, of a model railway called Dovedale. The model is operated like a real modern railway and was built entirely by the author within a strict low budget, using, wherever possible, recycled materials. Moreover, Dovedale is based on a specific prototype that exists in Buxton in Derbyshire, where freight trains run into an interchange siding, the locomotive runs round the train and then departs to a different destination. Some model railways are operated somewhat chaotically and are characterized by frequent derailments and locomotives that stop arbitrarily. If you wish to move away from this kind of layout and construct a model railway that operates realistically and reflects more closely the way that railways actually work in the second decade of the 21st century, then this is the book for you. Whilst constantly emphasizing realistic operation, the book covers layout planning and construction, controllers, point motors, power supply, cables and connectors, ways of operating traffic flows, signalling, track droppers, control panels and wiring, control and interlocking, lighting, sequence and block bells, the use of closed circuit television, and much more.

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Book SynopsisDetermining where and how to store a model railway when it is not in use can be difficult, especially if space is severely limited; a folding railway layout can be the solution to this problem. The author has designed an ingenious folding wooden case that accommodates his truly remarkable N-gauge multi-track layout, and which is also suitable for an oval track layout in 00 gauge. In this fascinating book, the author describes all aspects of how to build the folding case and how to construct the layout within using lightweight materials such as rigid foam. Some of the most remarkable features of the layout are how to construct and install a working cable car, moving road vehicles, a revolving children's roundabout, and a helicopter with motorized rotor blades. There are over 300 excellent step-by-step diagrams and photographs.

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Book Synopsis0 gauge (scale 7mm to the foot) is the 'senior scale' and it has existed for almost as long as the hobby of railway modelling itself. With the advent of high-quality ready-to-run 0 gauge locomotives and rolling stock, it is enjoying a huge surge in popularity. This fascinating book covers the history and the benefits of 0 gauge; discusses the various prototypical gauges that can be successfully modelled in 0 gauge; examines making a start in this gauge and practical layout planning and it also shows the modeller how to successfully create scenery and model buildings.

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Book SynopsisA model railway layout is greatly enhanced by a good back scene. If a modeller is prepared to go to great lengths to achieve realism in the locomotives, rolling stock and buildings, this should be carried through to the scenics. This book is a comprehensive guide for both railway and diorama modellers to create convincing back scenes. It covers choosing the right materials; rural and urban back scenes; traditional painted back scenes; producing back scenes with camera and/or computer; the correct use of forced perspective and scale reduction; getting the transition from layout to back scene right and, finally, lighting and presentation.

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Book SynopsisComprehensive in its coverage, Modelling the Southern Region - 1948 to the Present presents an historical overview of the post-war Southern Region of British Railways before guiding the reader through a series of detailed modelling projects, illustrating all of the techniques and equipment required, from building freight, locomotives and architecture, to modernization, electrification and the third rail. These projects make use of the best available commercial model-making products and provide an introduction to scratch-building your own lineside items. Each project is supported by a short historical background section and suggestions as to how each project could be further developed. The result will be a set of models that sets the modeller on track for a first-class model of the Southern Region.

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Book SynopsisModelling the East Coast Main Line in the British Railways Era follows the construction of an East Coast Main Line layout in 00 gauge, based on the Little Bytham prototype. Little Bytham, nestled in rural Lincolnshire, is the station nearest to where the fastest steam exploits in the country were achieved. Nearby, the Flying Scotsman became the first steam locomotive to reach 100 miles per hour, Papyrus broke the world speed record for a non-streamlined locomotive, and Mallard set the current world speed record for a steam locomotive. This practical guide escorts the reader through all aspects of constructing an East Coast Main Line layout and topics include baseboard construction, track laying and ballasting; wiring and making signals; modelling scenery, buildings, locomotives, carriages and wagons and how to plan an operation sequence.

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Book SynopsisWhether in a rural or urban setting, the addition of railway infrastructure can transform a train set into a railway layout. Modelling Tunnels, Embankments, Walls and Fences for Model Railways demonstrates how to build these essential features and place them into a railway layout. It describes the unique challenges, techniques and materials for each element, and provides plenty of practical advice on how to realistically model these crucial aspects of a landscape. Topics include: incorporating topographical features into a layout, from planning to execution; the importance of baseboard construction and track laying when modelling a landscape; practical considerations and techniques for building tunnels; the use of vegetation, animals and small buildings to bring layouts to life and finally, the use of ready-to-plant items, and kit- and scratch-building techniques.

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Book SynopsisRailway layouts often depict a branch line in a rural or urban setting, with the majority of locomotive models available representing passenger trains. However, increasingly, ready-to-run models of industrial locomotives are becoming available, providing the unique opportunity to place them into an industrial context. This highly illustrated book provides all the guidance and inspiration needed to begin placing these models in their natural, industrial environment.

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Book SynopsisThis lavishly illustrated book provides guidance on how to transform your model from its bare structure to a realistic finish. This new book provides: a guide for both beginners and the more experienced, covering all scales and gauges; advice on the selection of airbrushes, compressors and essential tools; a simple three-step process to clean and prepare your model for painting; guidance on dealing with faults and paint problems; instruction on the pros and cons of the different ways to produce lines; tips to help you produce consistent fine lines with a bow pen; how to get the best out of transfers and the different types available, and finally, basic weathering techniques using a variety of methods. With over 500 colour photographs it will help even the beginner to produce a realistic life-like model.Trade Review" For a modeller carrying out a simple identity change to finishing off a kitbuild project, these are wise words, professionally expressed, and as such will be of great value to new and experienced builders alike. " * Railway Modeller *" If you enjoy putting those final touches to your model, this is an excellent guide to most of the aspects that you will need. " * Gauge O Guild Newsletter *

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Book SynopsisMany aspects of railway modelling are the same whatever scale you choose, but N Gauge has particular benefits: namely, that there is more space for scenery, longer trains and extensive fiddle yards. This leads to specific challenges in the design and layout to ensure a realistic-looking model. Assuming some familiarity with the basics of N Gauge, this book provides guidance and instruction to extend and develop modelling skills to produce a layout that is scenically impressive: planning baseboards, integrating scenery with the backscene, and keeping everything in harmony. With over 250 colour photographs, it includes constructing baseboards and scenery; how to make models of real buildings; using different systems for moving vehicles and controlling them; building, painting and finishing rolling stock from kits and, finally, what is needed to make a successful exhibition layout and how to perform demonstrations.

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Book SynopsisPlanning, designing and laying the track for a model railway layout can be challenging, especially if you have never done it before. This book provides a step-by-step guide to the techniques required and methods used in track design and layout. With content suitable for those who are new to the hobby through to the more experienced modeller, and some 200 images, it includes: an overview of the various forces that act on prototype railways and which determine the design of trackwork. The planning and designing of layouts, including the pros and cons of different domestic locations are covered along with baseboard construction for both portable and permanent layouts. There is a review of the track systems available and how to lay tracks, the tools and skills required, and problem solving. Wiring up both analogue (DC) and digital layouts (DCC), with diagrams are given and scales and gauges are discussed. Finally, there are hints and tips on ballasting and weathering track.

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Book SynopsisOne of our best received railway titles in recent years was Northern Rail Rover, a selection of unpublished photos taken in the final years of steam on Britain''s railways by photographer, Allan Heyes. We were delighted when Allan agreed to compile a sequel from his extensive archive which covers his travels in search of steam in the 1960s. The result is an all new collection of his work, Northern Rail Steam.This book takes the reader on a journey recorded in over 200 images, which starts in North Wales and moves on through Chester to Merseyside. There follows a roughly circular itinerary starting around the Wigan area and south east Lancashire before heading to the north east and Cumbria before returning to Lancashire. While the majority of photos cover steam on the BR network, some explore the colliery and other industrial lines which fed traffic onto the main lines. Sequences of pictures at certain locations will recreate the lineside experience of many enthusiasts at this time and will bring them to life for those too young to remember those days.A feature of the photographs of Allan Heyes is that they honestly and accurately portray the reality of those last years of steam. There is no attempt to glamorise the subject, the dirty and unkempt nature of engine sheds and their locos is here for all to see. The book also focuses on the infrastructure and the environment of the steam railway so much of which has been swept away in the decades following the end of steam on Britain''s railways.

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Book SynopsisThe BR diesel locomotive types, that under the TOPs renumbering scheme became Classes 44s, 45s, and 46s, are best known by their nickname of ''Peaks''. This is derived from the first ten locomotives being given the names of British mountains. These machines originated under the Modernisation Plan of 1955 as BR''s Type 4 design. The Class 45s and Class 46s had slightly more powerful engines compared to the Class 44s, with the Class 46s having Brush rather than Crompton Parkinson Ltd electrical equipment.The Class 45s became the main motive power on the Midland main line for many years, while the Class 46s were used heavily on cross country services between the North East and South West. The Class 44s were at first employed on the West Coast main line but were latterly were relegated to freight duties mostly being based at Toton depot in Nottinghamshire.This new study covers the three types from their design and inception through to withdrawal and preservation. It draws extensively on original source material from a number of archives, and is lavishly illustrated with over 200 black and white and colour photographs almost all of which are being published for the very first time.

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Book SynopsisBritish Railways was created in 1948 when the Great Western, the London, Midland & Scottish, the London & North Eastern and the Southern were taken into public ownership. BR inherited all their locomotives, passenger and goods rolling stock. Whilst much has been published on BR locomotives and passenger stock, accurate and detailed coverage of the large inventory of vehicles used to convey the huge volumes of goods traffic carried by the railways at that time, is less readily available. This series sets out to provide that information. Written by David Larkin, one of the acknowledged experts on British railway wagons, each volume is heavily illustrated throughout.Starting with an overview of the categories of vehicles covered, this fifth volume explores the huge fleet of open general merchandise wagons, of various sizes, acquired from the ''Big Four''. The wagons are generally dealt with in relation to the companies that built them. The types of wagons covered in this volume includes three-plank mostly dropside opens and the more common general merchandise five-plank versions. It also deals with all the wagons which were produced with shock absorbing equipment from the 1930s onwards, low sided 20-ton capacity all-steel aggregate wagons and PW open wagons used for ballast and general loads.This series is an essential work of reference for all those interested in BR''s huge wagon fleet and a valuable reference tool for railway modellers.

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