Bachmann has unveiled another model in its OO9 scale Quarry Hunslets range.
The ‘Holy War‘ was the seventh of eleven Alice Class Quarry Hunslet locomotives constructed for the Dinorwic Quarry in North Wales, delivered in 1902 and initially known as No. 3 – only being named ‘Holy War’ in 1908. The locomotive spent much of its working life on the higher levels of Dinorwic Quarry and was once housed in the highest engine shed in Britain, located at 1,860ft above sea level on the quarry’s Lernion Level. In November 1967, the ‘Holy War’ was withdrawn, marking the end of 120 years of steam locomotives in Welsh slate quarries.
Purchased from the quarry in 1968 by the Quainton Railway Society, ‘Holy War’ was relocated to Quainton Road, then sold again in 1975. The Bala Lake Railway in North Wales became the locomotive’s new residence following this sale. A comprehensive restoration project was undertaken, during which an enclosed cab was custom-built and installed, replacing the original open-cab design. In 1989, the Bala Lake Railway purchased Holy War, ensuring its long-term preservation. The locomotive was decorated in the mid-1990s with the lined blue livery it wears today.
In 2018, the locomotive was and 2023 sees the return to steam of ‘Holy War’ alongside sister locomotive ‘Alice’ – a locomotive that has already been modelled by Bachmann Narrow Gauge.
The new 009 model features a diecast boiler and running plate, and separately fitted details including handrails, valves, springs, brake shoes and cab controls. The 0-4-0ST wheel formation is faithfully modelled, with authentically-profiled wheels running in metal bearings ensuring smooth running, powered by a coreless motor with flywheel, and with a 6 Pin DCC decoder socket for those wishing to upgrade the model for use with a DCC system. NEM coupling pockets feature at both ends, into which standard OO9 scale couplings are fitted.
The model is priced at £149.95 and proceeds from each sale will help the Bala Lake Railway, from where it can be ordered from the Bala Lake Railway shop.
Will be available to purchase at the Bala Lake Railway during their ‘Welcome Back Alice and Holy War’ event on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th April 2023. Additionally, Bala Lake Railway will include a voucher for a free return ticket (valid from 2nd May to 4th November 2023) with all models ordered before midnight on Monday 1st May (including models purchased in person during the event).
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Tags: 009, Bachmann-News
