SEVERN VALLEY

This is no surprise. One of my local model shops told me before Christmas that they had stopped dealing with Hornby. Hornby selling direct to modellers via the internet and under cutting the prices that they charge model shops says it all. Bachmann I believe stated recently that their traditional arrangements with model shops would be retained. A better reading of the market perhaps. All very, very sad. John.

A very interesting project and you've made good progress to date. I have an interest in the area as my daughter lives in Darton by Barnsley and we often see very old DMUs rattleing along. Are there any notable landmarks from the H & B days in the area ? I look forward to future progress. John.

If you visit Bewdley on the Severn Valley Railway I would recommend my local on Severnside North, The Mug House, the Wyre Valley 'Hereford Pale' and Bewdley Brewery 'Worcstershire Way' are my favorite beers and are always kept in top condition. Foods good too. Happy drinking, Regards John. PS - ignore these new pills that depress the apetite for beer - pubs will cease to existi!

Brossard, thank you for your helpful reply and I apologise for my late reply.. My layout is about 15 years old and all track and pointwork is Peco. In desperation I ran two express trains on my up and down continuos runs each comprising a pacific loco and 6 coaches, a total of 136 wheels ! They perfomed perfectly as always. I then ran the 4F in turn behind each train and guess what - it derailed on points on both cuircuits. I then returned to my very good model shop and exchanged the 4F for a J11 - it has performed faultlessly. This would appear to be a production problem with this batch of 4F locos. I am sure your comments are correct and again thanks. Best regards, John.

My new BM 4F is a lovely model and runs very well. BUT - there is a problem. It derails on curved points.in situations where my other 20+ locos do not. My lovely local model shop has changed my loco or me but the problem is still persists with the replacement. Has any body else had the same experience and found a solution. Regards, John.

Bloody marvellous - you are very talented. Best regards, John.

Many congratulations.I have read so many of your articles over the years that I feel that I almost know you. Thank you for being the first in providing proper critical evaluations of models produced by our major suppliers. A most welcome service. Best regards, John.

Looks gorgeous - well done. Best regards, John.

Wonderful photos - you have saved me the time & cost of visiting the museum - well done! Regards, John.

I note that Rails Of Sheffield are offering a Heljan Class 17, Product Code 1709 - running no. D8500. at the very competitive price of ??69.50. Is this one of the new batch or the original batch that has given such grief ? Your advice woild be much welcome. Regards, John.