Bachmann Reveal Modern-Day Ladies At Ffestiniog Railway Event
Bachmann Europe Plc today announced two new OO9 Scale models of the Mainline Hunslet Locomotives ‘Linda’ and ‘Blanche’ as part of its Bachmann Narrow Gauge range. With 2023 marking the 60th anniversary since the pair were purchased by the Ffestiniog Railway, the announcement was made during the line’s popular Bygones Weekend, at which Bachmann is showcasing its range of OO9 scale Narrow Gauge models.
Affectionately known as the Ladies, ‘Linda’ and ‘Blanche’ were built for the Penrhyn Quarry Railway in 1893 and served until the railway closed in 1962. The following year both were purchased by the Ffestiniog Railway and soon the 0-4-0 tank engines were fitted with tenders to increase their fuel capacity. Later fitted with front pony wheels, becoming 2-4-0STTs (2-4-0 Saddle Tank with Tender), the pair were converted to oil firing in the early-1970s, reverting to coal firing in 2013 (Linda) and 2014 (Blanche). The new Bachmann Narrow Gauge models depict the Ladies in their current condition, as coal firing locomotives decorated in the stunning Ffestiniog Railway Lined Green livery.
Driven by a coreless motor and flywheel with all-wheel pick up, a Next18 DCC decoder socket with pre-fitted speaker is fitted along with firebox lighting to bring every model to life. Each model is available in standard format (item No. 391‑135 – Linda / 391‑136 – Blanche) or with SOUND FITTED (item No. 391‑135SF – Linda / 391‑136SF – Blanche) and with recommend retail prices of £229.95 (391‑135/136) and £329.95 (391‑135SF/136SF).
Initially, both ‘Linda’ and ‘Blanche’ will be available exclusively via the Ffestiniog Railway’s shop, with all sales supporting the continued operation of the popular North Wales narrow gauge line that runs from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog. All versions are in stock now and purchases can be made in person at the Porthmadog shop, or online at www.festrail.co.uk/shop.
Bachmann Collectors Club Exclusive Model
If you don’t fancy ‘Linda’ in green, but prefer something a little bluer then our latest Bachmann Collectors Club Limited Edition model is the one for you. Our model of ‘Linda’ in Midnight Blue livery harks back to the 1990s when she was oil firing, sporting a stovepipe chimney and oil carrying tender. Limited stocks of our blue ‘Linda’ remain available for members of the Bachmann Collectors Club to order now.
