1659 at J.C.Edwards Terracotta Works...

It’s the summer of 1957 and today we find BR 16xx class pannier number 1659 shunting on the Pontcysyllte branch...

The Pannier is just 3 years old having arrived new to Carmarthen for use on the Cardigan branch in 1955. It left for Croes Newydd (Wrexham) in March 1957, and was a regular on the Ruabon Brook Tramway. However, when it’s first general overhaul was due in October 1960 the decision was taken to withdraw it, and it was cut up having the unenviable distinction of being the shortest lived 16xx of them all!

Note the ex GWR brakevan, lettered specifically for use on the branch.

The model is a weathered Model Rail / Rapido 16xx. I’ve started the weathering but it’s not finished yet but already is coming to life with its combination of micro painting, washes and airbrushing, combined with some scuffing and distressing to represent foot marks. More soon...