Late Kidderminster train buff's Deltic model loco to be auctioned

Brian Waite, from Kidderminster, made an exact replica of the iconic 1955 English Electric DP1 prototype, which he kept in his workshop.

The 7ft-long model, which weighed 50kg (7.9st), was displayed at exhibitions around the UK including Birmingham’s NEC, Alexandra Palace in London and Barrow Hill railway museum in Chesterfield, Derbys.

Speaking after he was awarded a prize for his remarkable model-making skills, Mr Waite said: "It was the world's most powerful diesel-electric locomotive.

"I chose to build a model of this particular locomotive because it represents post-war engineering and the innovative thinking of the time."

Mr Waite died in 2006 aged just 59, and his partner Erika Lyons, carried on displaying the Deltic around the country as a tribute to him.

Early days working on the Deltic in Brian's workshop (Image: Erika Lyons/Hansons)

Ms Lyons now wants another train fan to enjoy Mr Waite's masterpiece and the model is being auctioned later this month.

She said: “It’s an important model loco.

“The prototype Deltic was introduced in 1955 as part of the post-war modernisation plan.

“Built by English Electric, it was the world's most powerful diesel-electric locomotive.

"Brian built the model because it represented post-war engineering and the innovative thinking of the time.

“Brian spent 8,000 hours painstakingly making it in his small workshop.

“When he took it to shows rail enthusiasts were stunned by its quality and incredible attention to detail.

“It picked up several awards and was featured in locomotive magazines.

Press cutting featuring Brian - supplied by his family (Image: Family handout)

She added: “Brian loved the Deltic. He remembered it as a child. He wanted to build a scale model so it could be used for rides.

“He designed everything on it himself and engineered most of the parts. He worked as an engineer for Severn Trent but trains were his utter, utter passion.

“He built other steam models but this was his only diesel-electric model. He was very proud of it.

“I hope his Deltic will find a new owner who will appreciate it as much as Brian did.”

Lot 292, the DP1 Prototype, Deltic 5" gauge locomotive, with wooden case on castors for transportation, is being offered in Hansons Auctioneers’ April 28 Specialist Toys, Models, Live Steam & Video Games Auction.

It is expected to fetch between £20,000 and £25,000.

Steve Fulford, model train valuer at Hansons, said: “This train is so exceptional in its build quality it takes your breath away.

“I was astonished when I first saw it. The standard is so high. It showcases Brian’s talent, patience and sheer skill.

"It also demonstrates an important part of Britain’s rail heritage.

“Britain, and the world, is bursting with rail enthusiasts, so I very much hope we can find the right buyer to give the Deltic the home it deserves.

“It would be wonderful to see it on public display and used for rides, just as it was originally intended.”