One man’s passion for trains sparked the creation of an award-winning model locomotive which has amazed rail buffs for decades – and it’s now set for auction.
Such is its quality, the 7ft long, 50kg, scratch-built replica of the English Electric DP1 prototype Deltic locomotive has been displayed at Birmingham’s NEC, Alexandra Palace in London and Barrow Hill railway museum in Chesterfield, Derbyshire.
But now the unique model, built by the late Brian Waite over the course of 11 years in the 1990s, needs a new owner to keep it on track for glory.
Brian, from Kidderminster, West Midlands, passed away nearly 17 years ago at the age of 59 and his partner, Erika, has done much to keep Brian’s love for trains alive. However, she feels the time has come to let the Deltic go. It is being offered by Hansons Auctioneers on April 28 with an estimate of £20,000 to £25,000.
Erika said: “It’s an important model loco. The prototype Deltic was introduced in 1955 as past of the post-war modernisation plan. Built by English Electric, it was the world’s most powerful diesel-electric locomotive. Brian built the model because it represented post-war engineering and the innovative thinking of the time.
“He spent 8,000 hours painstakingly making it in his small workshop. When he took it to shows rail enthusiasts were stunning by its quality and incredible attention to detail. It picked up several awards and was featured in locomotive magazines.
“Brian loved the Deltic. He remembered it as a child. He wanted to build a scale model so it could be used for rides. He designed everything on it himself and engineered most of the parts. He worked as an engineer for Severn Trent but trains were his utter, utter passion.
“He built other steam models but this was his only diesel-electric model. He was very proud of it. I hope his Deltic will find a new owner who will appreciate it as much as Brian did.”
Steve Fulford, model train valuer at Hansons Auctioneers, said: “This train is so exceptional in its build quality it takes your breath away. I was astonished when I first saw it. The standard is so high. It showcases Brian’s talent, patience and sheer skill. It also demonstrates an important part of Britain’s rail heritage.
“Britain, and the world, is bursting with rail enthusiasts, so I very much hope we can find the right buyer to give the Deltic the home it deserves. It would be wonderful to see it on public display and used for rides, just as it was originally intended.”
Lot 292, the DP1 Prototype, Deltic 5″ gauge locomotive, with wooden case on castors for transportation, is being offered in Hansons Auctioneers’ April 28 Specialist Toys, Models, Live Steam & Video Games Auction. Catalogue: www.hansonslive.co.uk and www.the-saleroom.com.
To find out more, or to arrange a free valuation of model trains or railwayana, email [email protected].
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