It's been a while, hasn't it?

Much has happened since my first post including a rather embarrassing appearance on the telly! However, as I've completed more and more of my O gauge to do list, I have found myself with a major lack of modelling projects. So, it is with a heavy heart, that I must admit that I have embarked on many a OO project. One such project is Maude.

Maude was probably the first steam locomotive I ever saw and has been a firm favourite ever since. Over the past few years I've worked on three different models of her. The first was awful, the second was passable and the third? The third is still being worked on! I hope you will forgive the fact that the following pictures were taken on my O-16.5 layout as I don't have a OO one.

There's still a way to go, but so far so good methinks! The model is, of course, a Hornby J36 (previously Haig). It is a very smooth runner even at slow speeds - if you want something reliable and Scottish on your layout and can't find an Edinburgh Traffic Warden, this is the model for you.

I've pilfered some fire irons from my D11 just to give this model some extra character.

Those who own a model of Haig will know that the sides of the cab interior are oddly bare. I've tried to rectify this, but I'm not sure if I've done a particularly good job.

I don't like to blow my own trumpet but I'm very pleased with the weathering on this model. I think it's my best yet. Hopefully it won't be too long before my plates from Narrow Planet arrive which will please the purist in me (I must have Neilson worksplates!).

Anyway, I'll leave you all in peace for now. I hope to post more, but I said that last time and look how long it took me to make another post!

(P.S. isn't it odd that, as someone who wants to see the real Maude in anything other than BR black, I have modelled her in said livery?)