Hornby R30281 LMS, Class 8F, 2-8-0, No. 8310 - Era 3

The LMS Class 8F, designed by Stanier, was a remarkable locomotive that served many purposes. It was one of the most widely used 2-8-0 locomotives in Britain, a war hero, an export, and most importantly, a reliable freight industry worker. During the construction period of 11 years, 852 examples of the class were built, with one being built in almost every locomotive works around the UK. This is remarkable because a competing rail company would not normally assign valuable time to a competitor's locomotive. However, the locomotive was chosen by the War Department to be the standard freight engine of the war effort. This led to their construction all over the UK network, as even fierce national competitors had to work towards the common goal of peace during the war.

At its geographical peak, examples of the 8F locomotive could be found in the UK, Italy, Turkey, Iran, Palestine, Israel, and Egypt. 225 examples were in service overseas, initially in Egypt and Iran before being dispersed around the Middle East and parts of Europe, depending on demand. Most of these locomotives did not return to the UK and continued to be used in revenue-earning service long after steam was withdrawn from the UK network.

Overseas examples were withdrawn in the 1970s and 80s, with most being scrapped. In the UK, the last examples were withdrawn at the end of steam on BR in 1968, but many have been preserved. Two Class 8Fs are now a rare sight in the world of diving, being lost with the SS Thistlegrom. These locomotives are visible on the seafloor with the ship, and have become a major tourist attraction in recent years.

Locomotive 8310 was built in December 1943, too late to enter war service as the stock shipped overseas ceased in January 1942. The locomotive was in service for 24 years before being withdrawn on 30th December 1967. It was then stored for a short while before being scrapped before the end of the following year after a fairly unremarkable yet devoted service life. The 8F model is presented in its imposing black livery, which is perhaps more understated than its prowess would suggest. The model is fitted with tender pickups as well as a 21 pin DCC socket, enabling it to operate on a digital layout if required.