The Robinson B5 / LNER B3 Project
In 1914, the Great Central Railway introduced the Robinson B5 4-6-0s, express locomotives designed to handle fast passenger services with both strength and elegance. Their purposeful outline and powerful performance quickly earned them a place among the most distinctive designs of the Edwardian mainline.
With the 1923 Grouping, these engines passed into LNER stock, becoming Class B3. Under this new name, they continued to haul express services and became familiar sights beyond their GCR origins. Whether remembered as the GCR “Fish Engines” or the LNER B3s, this class represents a link between two great chapters of British railway history.
For the very first time, we aim to bring this dual-heritage locomotive to life in 00 gauge. This is a unique project, full of character. The Robinson B5 can be paired beautifully with GCR stock for pre-Grouping layouts, or with LNER coaching stock for layouts set in the 1920s and beyond.
To move forward, we need 1,500 enthusiasts to join our waitlist. Once that milestone is reached, the project will enter the next phase at a target price of £190. At that stage, we will invite advance payments to fund production. This price will get you a 00 gauge model with the following characteristics:
- Die-cast metal and injection-moulded plastic construction
- Next18 decoder socket
- Factory-fitted sound decoder
- NEM coupler pocket
When we reach 1,000 confirmed pre-orders, production will begin. Rest assured, any supporter can request a full refund at any time during the process — your commitment is safe.
Join us in making history and help bring the Robinson B5 — the Great Central “Fish Engine” and LNER B3 — back to life in miniature.