Last week a small package arrived containing whitemetal buffers... duly fitted and painted, the first of the Ashbury carriages can now said to be complete.

Considering how it started out as a flat cardboard static kit, I think I am justified in saying I am satisfied with the result. I have been able to get it to run, I have fitted an interior, I have fitted glazing, I have added a degree of depth and surface texture and the beading and panelling, I have added wire handrails and roof fittings. In essence, it has been a scratchbuild out of pre-drawn components. Yes, it has been a lot of work- more than I anticipated- but I think it was worth it.

It was so worthwhile, in fact, that having completed the first carriage I immediately launched into the second- of course refining the techniques and methodology.