Backstory
Industrial locomotives have always been favourites with modellers, and few have more character than the Hawthorn Leslie 0-4-0 Saddle Tank. Compact, rugged, and instantly recognisable, these hardworking little engines were once a common sight in collieries, docks, and factories across Britain. Now, thanks to an exclusive partnership between Footplate and Dapol, this classic industrial will be available in ready-to-run O Gauge for the first time.
A Proven Formula
The new model builds on the proven specification of Dapol’s O Gauge B4, with a heavy die-cast compensated chassis, sprung axle boxes, and a powerful 5-pole motor with flywheel. A finely detailed injection-moulded body captures the distinctive outline of the Hawthorn Leslie, with rivet detail, pipework, and handrails all neatly reproduced.
Authentic Liveries
A key highlight of this release is the wide range of authentic industrial liveries, carefully chosen to represent famous prototypes from across Britain:
- Turners Asbestos ‘Asbestos’ No.2780
- British Celanese Limited ‘Henry’ No.2491
- Isle of Wight Railway ‘Invincible’ No.3135
- Port of London Authority No.56
- NCB Netherton ‘Bedlington’ No.2779
- Newport Power Station ‘Faraday’ No.3793
- Plain Black (unlettered)
- Tyne Electric Supply Co No.13
- Marston’s Brewery ‘Marston, Thompson & Evershed Ltd’ No.3
This variety ensures there’s something to appeal to both the serious historian and the modeller who simply wants a small, versatile shunter for their layout.
A True Collaboration
The Hawthorn Leslie project is the result of close collaboration between Footplate and Dapol, combining Footplate’s passion for industrial modelling with Dapol’s established expertise in O Gauge locomotive production.
Exclusively Available
The O Gauge Hawthorn Leslie will be available exclusively from Footplate and Dapol, with pre-orders now. Delivery is expected in late 2026.