A DEMU challenge layout

Ravenscroft by Simon Bendall

Ravenscroft is a fictitious layout set in the industrial heart of Teesside. Taking its inspiration from the heavy industries found in the area, the layout will feature a steel distribution terminal with overhead gantry crane as well as a distribution centre served by the Speedlink network. Other freight traffic will also feature, passing through en route to and from the local docks, whilst the line still supports a spartan passenger service in the form of ‘Pacer’ DMUs.

Set during May/June 1988, the layout will depict the early period of Sectorisation as Railfreight adopted the sub-sector structure and associated triple-grey livery, with freshly repainted locos rubbing shoulders with classmates still variously in BR blue, Railfreight grey and assorted other colours. With Thornaby being the local main depot, its fleet of Kingfisher emblem-shod diesels will be much in evidence, working a variety of trip, mixed and bulk freights.

Locos will be sourced variously from Bachmann, Hornby and Heljan with freight stock being a mixture of ready-to-run and kits.

Size of layout 3.0M x 0.8M