BR Class 50 D403 Diesel Locomotive

BR Class 50 D403 Diesel Locomotive

1:120 scale model produced by Hornby TT:120. This model is ready-to-run straight out of the box and would make a excellent addition to any model railway collection.

Features:

• Analogue DC Model
• This model mainly operates in Britain
• Decorated in BR company markings
• Best suited to 365mm radius curves
• Highly detailed model of BR Class 50 Co-Co diesel locomotive
• Individually numbered locomotive: D403
• Authentic British Rail blue livery with fine printed detailing
• Detailed bodyshell with roof fan, grille, and underframe components
• Directional lighting for realistic operation

Details

Bring powerful mixed-traffic diesel performance to your layout with the Hornby TT:120 BR Class 50, running number D403. This highly detailed model represents one of British Rail’s most iconic express passenger locomotives, designed for high-speed services on non-electrified main lines across the UK.

The Class 50 was built by English Electric between 1967 and 1968, with 50 locomotives produced. Originally introduced for fast passenger services on the West Coast Main Line before full electrification, the class quickly became a staple of BR’s express fleet. Their distinctive Co-Co wheel arrangement and powerful diesel-electric performance made them capable of hauling long, heavy passenger trains at sustained speeds.

This model depicts locomotive D403 in British Rail blue livery, reflecting its early-to-mid career appearance during the BR diesel era. It is ideal for Era 5–6 layouts and brings authentic high-speed diesel traction to TT:120 mainline operations.

This model features finely reproduced bodyshell detailing, separately applied parts, and accurate underframe equipment typical of the Class 50 fleet. Its Co-Co wheel arrangement provides strong traction, making it suitable for both express passenger services and heavy freight duties when required.

It pairs naturally with Mk2 and Mk3 coaching stock for express passenger trains, as well as freight formations including tank wagons, hopper wagons, and intermodal traffic.

Historical Background

The Class 50 was developed by English Electric as a stopgap high-speed diesel for British Rail’s electrification transition period. Initially operating on the West Coast Main Line, the locomotives were later transferred to the Western Region, where they became synonymous with fast express passenger services.

Originally built as Class 5000 series locomotives, they were later renumbered into the 50xxx series under British Rail. Their reliability and performance ensured they remained in frontline service for decades, with many surviving into the privatisation era and several preserved today.