A 20 ft, 18-year-old, wooden model train is up for auction this month at 1818 Auctioneers on the Cumbria Lancashire border.
A quarter of the size of the train it is modelling – a London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS) 0-6-0 steam train – it comprises a steam locomotive, a 3435 tender or coal car and a carriage.
Valuer David Hunter estimates it will make between £500 to £800.
Painted a glossy black, the ride-on train is powered by a lawn-mower engine equivalent to eight horsepower which turns its six wooden working wheels.
It was a retirement project for its 84-year-old owner, Jim Horsburgh who now lives in Temple Sowerby, combining his love of trains and career as a joiner. It ran on a bespoke wooden track, also made by Jim, in the couple’s large garden in Norfolk where it was popular with local children recalls Jim. It’s not been used since they moved to Cumbria and Jim says the train now needs a new home and an appreciative owner.
1818 Auctioneers railwayana specialist David Hunter hopes the public’s enduring love of trains will mean this unique model will be enjoyed once more.
As David Hunter explains:
“From railway programmes and documentaries to stories of Hogwarts Express, Thomas the Tank Engine, and the Polar Express, trains continue to capture our imagination.
“I can see it promoting a heritage railway or transport attraction or even taking centre stage in a magical Christmas display,” he adds.
The model train is offered as part of 1818 Auctioneers vintage toys and models online auction which is live between Thursday 18 November until Sunday 5 December.
For more information call David Hunter on 015395 66201.