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'Pre-production sample' it's described as ... 'Not a review' ... If it's not a review, it's pretty close to one - very impressive looking locomotive I must say ... !! Very nice clear background information. One of 2 available at the moment - both pre-production. Al.

If you fancy a Hornby Lord Nelson, take a look at Rails ... Al.

The 70 with added lead only weighed 450g, the 68 weighs in at 700g with no 'adjustment' required. I didn't find a speed problem with the 70, it's not an express locomotive, it's a goods loco, just its FAR too light. I was so disappointed I sold my 70. I've one 68, and am after another - both TPE's. Superb locomotive. Bachmann got the detailing very nicely on the 70, but that's if it stays on a shelf somewhere. Nowhere near representative in 'prototypical running'. Al.

Let's hope there's no negative press on the Hattons Class 66, and it'll probably start a decrease in Bachmann 66 prices - which has to be a good thing for the consumer as it's still a very good locomotive. The only seriously disappointing Bachmann locomotive I've had lately was the Class 70 - lighter than a Class 25!! Al.

Did somebody mention Hornby and 802 ................... Al.

I often wonder what such a powerful locomotive is doing with just 5 carriages anyway - 20 years ago that was the power needed to take 12 coaches to 100 mph anyway!! Even if each coach is 8-10 tons heavier .... Then watching videos you see the speed it accelerates out of stations .... !! Al.

Jenny and Sam both seem to have close connections with Hattons - not a bad idea obviously. Could be some interesting reviews, and doubtless Sam will do a head-to-head Bachmann versus Hattons performance comparison - I know I would!! Al.

I'm looking at my Brutus right now, and it looks pretty 'vibrant' to me in today's subdued daylight. Too shiny and the paint Police would be out again. Too metallic and the paint Police would be out. OK, it's not a precise match for a brand new locomotive ... but even 2 years down the line, never mind the 15-25 years normally anticipated, I don't see an issue. That's my opinion anyway. You're perfectly entitled to yours of course. Al.

I suppose even the UV resistance in the dyes will have a limited duration once they start pounding the rails ... Again, I don't see a slight shade of colour as a game changer, particularly if it is slightly lighter than 'as brand new'. Al.

Are these locomotives wrapped or painted - in full-scale? If painted, I wouldn't both about the precise shade of blue, it'll discolour slightly over a few years' use anyway. I don't see it being a model purchase decider - the model's superb!! Al.

Perhaps during the last 12 months!! Al.

That's the one, yes!!

I think it would be nice, and relatively easy for Hornby to produce an as-preserved 850 Lord Nelson, in preserved green livery. Al.

Rails have a sale on 'N' Gauge 68's at the moment. Al.

Just think, we were supposed to have received them by now ... originally! As you say, let's hope the wait is worth it - I'm sure it will be - looks superb and the specifications are great - I love a loco with opening doors!! Al.

Great stuff, does that mean 'before July' then by past experience? Al.

Perhaps it was that I meant - I knew there was some form of relationship with DRS. It was unusual that perhaps half of the locomotives appearing were DRS liveried ... very well done as well 2nd time around. Al.

I've just ordered 32-486 - due probably early-mid-2020 - just need a decent BLUE class 40. Are the latest 40's still that weird Bachmann 8-wheel-drive - 4 / bogie? Al.

I think apart from the DRS ones - sponsored by DRS I believe - they must have prepared relatively equal amounts of each livery .... then .... Accurascale announced the TPE Mk.5 coaches ... That's when things went pear shaped - hugely disproportionate number wanting TPE liveried 68's ... after the stable door had closed. Just keep your eyes peeled on Ebay. One pops up from time-to-time, but normally at an inflated price. I was lucky and got mine 'new, used' on Ebay from Rails at a fair price a few months ago. Al.

It is EXTREMELY CURIOUS how many new members there are, just appearing on Day 3 of the Hornby competition ... truly remarkable!! Not hinting for a minute there may be several with multiple accounts .... !! Al.

The speedo cable's been pulled off as well - should have been removed from the wheel first - remains attached to the body. Was it like that on arrival as well? Al.

Flywheels will help of course, but not the same. Al.

Hopefully it doesn't just require DCC operation. Al.

I see what you mean, and would agree - that is rather embarrassing!! In the 1st photo it could just have been perspective, ... not the others!! Al.