120MH004 Scammell Mechanical Horse Van Trailer LNER

Oxford railway enthusiasts have already been treated to this model in 1:76 scale and here it is in the smaller scale in exactly the same detail.

The concept for  the Scammell Mechanical Horse was devised in the early 1930s by Napier & Son. The tractor unit and detachable back was a replacement for horse-drawn vehicles and Scammell Lorries Ltd so liked the idea they purchased the 3-wheeled design and following some refinements, this strong and sturdy vehicle became the favoured transport for pulling loads of  several tons.  A firm favourite with railway companies because of its manoeuvrability, it was a familiar sight in railway yards in particular, including LNER.

Here we see it as one of their Express Parcel Service vans, decorated in a rich dark blue with black chassis and roof and the model features a red band along the skirt of the trailer. The interesting artwork on the trailer is a scene from the Lanark Steel Works. The 1930s vintage vehicle is registered EGT 886.