We're excited to share the latest production sample photos of our exclusive Class 56 — 56001 Whatley in Railfreight Construction. Our model will be in late 80s/early 90s condition, and makes the perfect companion to our Foster Yeoman PHA/JYA box wagons.
(Please note - sample photos are subject to change, and we have used a chassis from another 56 for these photos)
A solid performer in Cardiff Canton’s FAWK pool of Westbury outbased construction locos, 56001 plied its trade hauling stone from the Somerset quarries of Whatley and Merehead, across the South of England and Wales.
As the first of the class to be painted in sector triple grey, it took part in the Railfreight sector launch at Ripple Lane in 1987. Subsequently it also made several appearances at depot open days, including Gloucester, Merehead and Bournemouth — and hauled the Pathfinder Tours “The Scratcher” railtour in 1993.
Our model comes complete with Whatley nameplates, ARC plaques and Canton depot markings.
We’re currently expecting delivery towards the end of February 2026 — and 56001 is available to preorder in DCC Ready and DCC Sound now.
Stay tuned for more grid news later this week!