◆ GAUGE ‘O’ ◆ MODEL Heljan 7303 Class 73/1 ‘large logo’ blue, un-numbered ◆ PRICE £779.00 ◆ AVAILABILITY Heljan stockists Web www.heljan.co.uk

A nticipation of Heljan’s ‘O’ gauge Class 73 has been building, with pre-production samples on show at numerous events and exhibitions over the past months. Now that the models have arrived in the UK, it has been interesting to be able to study a sample up close and on the test track. Has it lived up to expectations?

Representing the Class 73/1, the bulk of the ‘ED’ fleet, referred to originally as the ‘JB’, Heljan’s model offers plenty of potential in terms of livery options, with a healthy number of prototypes still at work with main line operators today.

Indeed, a total of 12 different versions has been produced in this first production run, featuring the original ‘Electric’ blue scheme, along with Rail blue, ‘large logo’ blue, InterCity Executive, ‘Dutch’, Network SouthEast, EWS red/gold, GB Railfreight blue/orange and Network Rail yellow. As per Heljan’s usual strategy for 7mm scale locomotives, the range consists of a mix of un-numbered and numbered versions.

Our review sample carries the attractive ‘large logo’ blue, as worn by many members of the fleet during the 1980s, and all that’s missing is a set of TOPS numbers, which must be sourced separately.

Presented in the usual foam-lined stout card box, the model is secured to a varnished wood plinth to minimise the risk of damage in transit. Take note of the warning leaflet contained within the box, as the locomotive must be handled carefully to avoid damaging the etched grilles in the centre of the body and atop the roof. I found it safest always to use two hands, picking the ‘73’ up towards each end. Weighing in at well over 2kg, a two-handed approach is quite sensible anyway!