Hornby R30271 LMS Fowler 4P 2-6-4T 2300 Steam Loco Big Four Centenary Collection Era 3

Henry Fowler, like LMS Chief Mechanical Engineers before him, was constrained by the company's desire to stick by its small engine policy. This policy was left over from the Midland Railway, the largest constituent company of the LMS, and resulted in some iconic steam designs such as the Fowler 3F Jinty, however ignored the reality that rail operations on a national level would bring. 

Suddenly entrusted with lines running from London to Scotland, the LMS would not have large express engines that it could call upon such as the LNER's A1 Pacific. While this was a policy that Fowler would eventually overcome with his Patriot design, his 4P tank engine had its DNA within the policy.

The locomotive would not be preserved, no example of the class would be however in 2013 it was announced that a new build project was under way to bring the class back into existence.

The Hornby Fowler 4F is fitted with a 5 pole motor resulting in strong performance from this large engine, aided by the weight from its diecast chassis. The model is also 8 pin DCC ready, for those who may wish to run the model on a digital layout.

Age 14+