Main Lines: 27th March 2026
Welcome to this week's Main Lines.
The past week on the UK railway network has seen a strong focus on recovery, upgrades and future planning, with Glasgow Central station fully reopening following fire damage and the upgraded Cutty Sark DLR station returning to service ahead of schedule. In the Midlands, passenger trains have resumed at Willenhall and Darlaston for the first time in decades, while key infrastructure works in South Wales have improved reliability between Newport and Cardiff. Elsewhere, HS2 continues to face cost pressures and scrutiny, and passengers are being advised to plan ahead for disruption over Easter with the temporary closure of London Euston station as major upgrade works take place.
In the model railway world, you can find out more about the announcement and the support everyone has for independent model shops, plus the latest updates from Graham Farish, Hornby, Rapido Trains UK, ModelCraft and Wiking in this week's Main Lines.
In This Issue:
An Important Update Regarding Heljan at Gaugemaster
As you might have already heard, Accurascale have today announced the acquisition of Heljan, which was concluded last week.
It appears that model shops are no longer part of their plan for Heljan, as all sales will be direct from themselves.
PUBLIC STATEMENT: One Industry, One Message. Now is the time to back Independent Retailers.
The model railway industry, though small and sometimes challenged, has consistently adapted and evolved. It has withstood world wars, global recessions, and pandemics. While famous brands have come and gone, the core strength remains: the independent model shop, a sector recognised as the most vital component by those who understand the industry best.
British Model Railway Announcements
New Class 20 Locomotives Announced
Bachmann made a strong impression at this year’s London Festival of Railway Modelling, where they unveiled an exciting update to their Graham Farish N Scale Class 20/0 range, featuring newly tooled models with a host of technical enhancements.
Hornby New Items: 24th March 2026
Discover the latest OO Gauge locomotive releases from Hornby, expanding their already extensive range of highly detailed models. Unveiled ahead of Scotland's biggest model railway show, Model Rail Scotland, these new additions showcase Hornby's commitment to detail, accuracy, and performance. Perfect for collectors and enthusiasts alike, these OO Gauge locomotives are designed to bring realism and reliability to any layout. With outstanding detail and smooth running qualities, they are set to become standout centrepieces in any model railway collection.
Rapido Trains UK Announce "The Railway Children" Train Pack.
Rapido Trains UK have announced a new train pack based on the 1970 film "The Railway Children". Containing the iconic locomotive, three coaches and even 3D-printed figures of the railway children themselves.
New Ironclad 0-6-0 L&Y Locomotives and 35t Rectank Wagons Announced
This latest wave focuses on expanding core steam-era modelling with carefully researched Ironclad 0-6-0 Steam Locomotives and versatile rolling stock, offering something for both collectors and operators alike in the form of 35t Rectank Wagons.
Other Model Announcements
ModelCraft Magnets Coming Soon
Two sets of magnets, ideal for use on model railway layouts, rolling stock and scenic detailing projects. Create strong, reliable connections for removable loads, interchangeable components and layout features, making it easy to swap wagons, details or accessories as your layout evolves.
March Announcements
Wiking’s March announcements bring together a characterful mix of classic European motoring and hardworking commercial vehicles, spanning several decades of road transport history. From the elegant curves of the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible in period green to iconic everyday vehicles such as the Saab 900 Turbo and Mercedes-Benz 600 Taxi, this latest selection captures both style and utility from the 1950s to the 1980s.
Check out the new items that have arrived into stock since the last Main Lines update. The list might be a bit long, but it's packed with exciting finds we think you'll love.
End Of The Line
That's the end of the line for this week. We will be back next week with another packed edition of Main Lines. Don't forget to set your preferences to make sure you receive any other newsletters coming soon, the first of these will be Kits & Bits released on Friday 6th May.
Until then, happy Modelling
Before You Go...
If you are interested in modelling beyond the railways, why not check out one of our sister publications? Published monthly, check your email preferences to subscribe!
KITS & BITS
Your Monthly Model Kit Newsletter
Published First Friday of the Month
This newsletter will focus on everything plastic kit related, including news from Airfix, Tamiya, and Revell.
PIT STOP
Your Monthly Slot Car Newsletter
Published Second Sunday of the Month
This newsletter will focus on everything slot car related, including news from Scalextric, SCX and Carrera.
THE CABINET
Your Monthly Collectables Newsletter
Published Third Thursday of the Month
This newsletter will focus on everything collectables related, including Corgi, Oxford, and Herpa.