R30553SS - Hornby - OO - BR Class A4 Kingfisher – Steam Generator

BR Blue A4 Class 60024 'Kingfisher' w/Steam Generator

1:76 scale model produced by Hornby. This model is ready-to-run straight out of the box and would make a excellent addition to any model railway collection.

Details

Experience the elegance and power of one of Britain's most iconic express locomotives with the Hornby LNER A4 Pacific No. 60024 'Kingfisher', presented in striking BR Express Blue and equipped with both DCC Sound and Gen 2 steam generator technology. Famous for its streamlined styling and high-speed performance, the A4 remains one of the most celebrated steam locomotive classes ever built, and this highly detailed OO gauge model captures its distinctive appearance with exceptional accuracy.

Featuring a factory-fitted HM7000 decoder, authentic sound recordings and synchronised steam effects, Kingfisher delivers an immersive operating experience that brings the golden age of express steam to life. Combined with an impressive level of separately fitted detailing and robust engineering, this model is an outstanding addition to any OO gauge steam locomotive collection.

Please Note: This model requires a DCC controller or the Hornby HM7000 App for operation.

Built from extensive research and original works drawings, this highly detailed model features a die-cast chassis and boiler, die-cast valve gear and connecting rods, decorated crew figures, turned brass safety valves and a fully detailed cab with decorated instrument dials. Electrical pick-ups on both locomotive and tender wheels ensure reliable running, while a quick-release tender connection and pogo-pin wheel pick-up arrangement simplify maintenance.

The advanced Gen 2 steam generator uses optical sensing technology to synchronise steam output with wheel speed for highly realistic operation. The cold water-based system provides up to 20 minutes of continuous steam running, with adjustable output controlled through the decoder. A factory-fitted HM7000 decoder and speaker deliver authentic A4 locomotive sounds assembled from live recordings, perfectly synchronised with both movement and steam effects.

Tooling features include a smokebox door numberplate, single chimney, corridor tender and removed side valances, accurately reflecting the prototype during the period represented. The model also includes sprung metal buffers, NEM coupling pockets, a simulated coal load and a comprehensive accessory pack.

Features:

• 1:76 Scale Model
• Analogue DC Model
• This model mainly operates in Britain
• Decorated in BR company markings
• Best suited to 438mm radius curves
• Factory-fitted HM7000 DCC Sound decoder with authentic A4 sound profile
• Pre-installed Gen 2 steam generator with synchronised chuff-controlled steam effects
• Die-cast chassis and boiler with powerful 5-pole skew-wound motor
• BR Express Blue livery with British Railways tender lettering
• Flickering firebox, tender speaker and extensive separately fitted detailing

Historical Background

No. 60024 'Kingfisher' was the sixth member of Sir Nigel Gresley's famous A4 Pacific class, emerging from Doncaster Works in December 1936 as No. 4484. The A4s were designed for high-speed express passenger duties and became world-renowned for their streamlined appearance and exceptional performance.

Originally turned out in LNER Apple Green, Kingfisher was repainted into the iconic Garter Blue livery in 1938. Following wartime renumbering schemes, the locomotive became No. 585 and later No. 24, before entering British Railways service as No. 60024 after nationalisation.

Like several A4s, Kingfisher carried a variety of liveries throughout its career, including the short-lived BR experimental purple livery, BR Express Blue and later BR lined green. A double chimney was fitted in 1958 to improve performance, and the locomotive spent its final years hauling prestigious services between Glasgow and Aberdeen.

Remarkably, Kingfisher became the last A4 in regular British Railways service, remaining operational until September 1966. Its longevity and association with the final years of steam ensure its place among the most historically significant members of the legendary A4 class.