Bachmann Brassworks O gauge Class 03 diesel shunter

Bachmann Brassworks has released four versions of the Class 03 diesel shunting locomotive in O gauge. It is available with flower pot or cone chimneys and with or without air tanks. The unpainted brass finished model retails at £337.50. Painted versions will be available later.



230 diesel shunters (designated Class 03 under the 1971 TOPS renumbering system) were built at Doncaster and Swindon between 1957 and 1962. They were used on all regions initially but later activity was concentrated on the Eastern and London Midland regions. Eight Western Region locomotives allocated to Landore (Swansea) were fitted with cut down cabs for working between Burry Port and Cwmmawr which had a restricted loading gauge.

Weighing just 30 tons, the Class 03 could be used on lines with severe weight limitations. They were used for general shunting and pilot duties.

The first locomotive was withdrawn in 1968, although one example (No. 03079) remained in use on the Isle of Wight until 1993. These locomotives became popular with heritage lines and 51 of them have been preserved. A number remain in industrial use in Belgium, Italy and the UK.

Bachmann Brassworks O gauge locomotives can be ordered from any Bachmann stockist.