Railway Models UK

The Model Centre (TMC) has announced an exclusive 'OO' gauge model of the Thompson six-wheel 'BZ' van, produced in partnership with EFE Rail.

The 'BZ' van was designed by Edward Thompson for the London and North Eastern Railway and constructed for BR in the early 1950s. A total of 80 vans were built at Stratford Works and used on various parcels trains across the nationalised system. They were utilised on the Western, Southern, London Midland, and Eastern regions, and featured space for a guard. The 'BZ' vans remained in service until 1979, with nine preserved examples.

The new 'OO' gauge 'BZ' vans will be available in eight different running numbers and liveries, including:

Lined crimson (E70666, E70702E)
BR maroon (E70715E, E70700E, E70654E)
BR blue (E70689, E70678E, E70709)

Each model will feature:

Compensated centre axle
Separately fitted detail (battery boxes, underframe equipment, and vehicle ends)
Lighting sockets
Sprung NEM coupling pockets
Ability to negotiate second radius curves
Provision for interior lighting (with separately sold lighting pack)

The individual model price is £47.95, with multi-buy offers available:

Two models: £93.95
Three models: £136.95

The models are expected to be delivered in early 2026 and will be available exclusively from The Model Centre.

TMC unveils exclusive 'OO' gauge Thompson six-wheel 'BZ' van

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