Judging by the way that the Hornby RailRoad budget range of models has expanded, it has proved popular, providing a inexpensive way of getting started in the railway modelling hobby and particularly convincing parents that getting their children involved will not 'break the bank'. The range includes models that are slightly simplified, to reduce production costs, and uses older models for which the development costs have already been paid-off. It offers them in attractive finishes which modern production methods make possible.

Particularly appealing to 'first timers' are inexpensive locomotives and this year has seen the release of three new small additions which range in price from £23 to £27.50.

The first of these is R2940 0-4-0T Class D, based on a South Wales steel industry low cab tank engine and in the bright red livery of Trewas Aggregates. The basic model was introduced for starter sets in 1991 and 18 versions of it have been made.

Next comes one of the most famous subjects in the Tri-ang/Hornby fleet - the 'Jinty'. Introduced in 1953 it was only the second locomotive to arrive but the current model is the result of a retooling in 1978. R2942 is in LMS lined maroon, with '16440' on its tanks. This was also the first livery and number it carried as a retooled model 32 years ago - and then carried it for 13 years.