Last updated January 2026

With the completion of the B2, E2, C3, we have a representative of virtually every class of LBSCR engine in the period 1900-1914, with the exception of the H1 and H2 classes, and some of ‘X’ classified engines fitted with I1 or I2 boilers.

The E2 is featured as an example of scratchbuilding a loco body here.

For the next few months we’ll be focussing on getting Ouse Wharf finished for the 2026 Scalefour Jubilee Challenge. However, we have a couple more loco projects in the wings - a scratchbuilt model of the unique E1X (which will feature my first attempt with the use of USB’s), and Chris has a kit of a Manning Wardle K class, the same as used on Newhaven quay.

The loco index leads to photographs and descriptions of most of our locos. Nearly all of my earlier locos were scratchbuilt for the simple reason that when I started over 40 years ago, there were very few kits of Brighton prototypes, so scratchbuilding was the only alternative. Having now built quite a few kits I think in many respects scratchbuilding is no more difficult than kit building, and it opens the door to building a unique collection of unusual prototypes. (The honourable exception to this is the High Level Model kits which are excellent in every respect - well-designed, and with really good instructions and diagrams).

All the locos have handbuilt chassis, fully compensated, and with split-axle pick-up (with the exception of the HLModels locos, which have scraper pickups). Many were built originally with open frame motors (mostly Anchoridge D11's and D13's) but most have now been converted to Portescaps or Mashimas, with much improved running.