My Warley "splurge" has joined the Shipston-on-Stour roster and has received a few modifications. The model is the GWR green 9003 which will be re-numbered 3207 when an order of brass plates arrives from Fox Transfers. This is the one that started out life at Stratford (GWR) shed.

So far I have added the packaged details that came in the box and added screw link couplers to engine and tender. The metal coal plate has gone and there is some real coal in its place. I have also added a TCS 21 pin DCC decoder which I received this morning from Wickness Models. I like the TCS decoders a lot - very good slow running and the quiet drive lives up to its name. The tender has space for a Loksound V4 and speaker should I decide to upgrade.

Crew are very much needed on this open cab model so they will be added next, along with the brass plates.

The Dukedog will be paired with the two Hornby Clerestories and this train will serve the fictional route from Birmingham Moor Street through Stratford to Shipston via Ettington Junction. As a Stratford shed loco the service will probably be timetabled to start in Stratford in time to make a 1930s style commuter run to Birmingham from Shipston, with a second service in early evening.

EDIT Currently running in the Dukedog and there is absolutely no rock'n'roll about this one, very stable. Should be a great addition to the layout. I also tested 5724 and it ran nicely on its own 8 pin TCS decoder.