I was browsing for some modelling materials and I came across a Tamiya kit for a 1/48 scale Opel Blitz military lorry at a knockdown price due to a damaged box.  So I bought it.

My thinking was that it might be suitable for this project if I could convert it to a civilian version, the difference in scale might not offend if it was a background object. If not I could just enjoy making a plastic kit for a change, a long time since I did one.

A bit of research provided plenty of photos of both military and civilian versions, large numbers of each produced and some well preserved examples. Examination of the excellently designed and moulded kit showed that conversion to a civilian version is simple; leave off the military bits, remove a few lugs and fill a few holes.

A couple of photos, I think it has a certain charm.

While I had a lot of paints out I did a few of those cheap ebay figures, Crude when you are used to Andy Stadden ones but they are less than 10 p each and will do for a start. My first 1/50 scale scene. 

Where next? Well, more rolling stock, maybe another loco. Oh, track. any point in looking for ready to lay 20mm gauge track? . Nope, so thats a scratchbuild then …