BR Class 31 270 Diesel Locomotive

BR Class 31 270 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 31/1 diesel-electric locomotive
• Individually numbered locomotive: 31270
• Authentic BR blue livery with fine printed detailing
• Detailed bodyshell with roof fan, grille, and underframe components
• Designed for smooth and reliable mixed-traffic operation

Details

Add versatile mixed-traffic diesel power to your layout with the Hornby TT:120 BR Class 31/1, running number 31270. This highly detailed model represents one of British Rail’s most adaptable Brush Type 2 locomotives, widely used across passenger, freight, and departmental duties throughout its long service life.

The Class 31 was introduced in 1957 as part of British Railways’ diesel pilot scheme, with a total of 263 locomotives built by Brush Traction. Designed for mixed-traffic work, the class quickly became a familiar sight across the Eastern Region and beyond, operating everything from express passenger services to freight and engineering trains. The 31/1 sub-class represents later modifications, improving reliability and operational flexibility.

This model depicts locomotive 31270 in BR blue livery, reflecting its later career appearance during the diesel era. It is ideal for Era 7 layouts and brings authentic BR mixed-traffic diesel operations to TT:120 layouts.

This model features finely moulded bodyshell detailing, accurate A1A-A1A wheel arrangement, and separately applied components that capture the distinctive Brush Type 2 design. Its versatility makes it suitable for both passenger and freight duties across a wide range of TT layouts.

It pairs naturally with Mk1 and Mk2 coaching stock, as well as freight formations including ventilated vans, open wagons, and intermodal traffic, making it a highly flexible addition to any diesel-era fleet.

Historical Background

The Class 31 was developed under British Railways’ Modernisation Plan as part of a programme to replace steam traction with diesel-electric locomotives. Built by Brush Traction between 1957 and 1962, the class was intended for mixed-traffic duties and quickly proved adaptable across the entire network.

Locomotive 31270 represents a later-service example of the class, operating during the BR blue era when the locomotives were widely used for both passenger and freight services. Many Class 31s remained in service for decades due to their reliability and ease of maintenance, with some examples still operating in preservation or secondary roles today.