No manufacturer is going to say when they actually started working on them and why and as many wouldn’t believe them anyway in this situation, what’s the point?

Hornby have missed a trick, but can still go ahead and produce a model of “Lion” as preserved, or in presumed 1830s condition (along with its two sister locos) for sale to modellers of the 1830s, the 1930s (Lion), of preserved railways, or collectors. per lot thereafter Some exclusions apply for larger lots such as dinner services, please contact our offices for a quote with regards to larger or bulkier lots. And even if Hornby does decide to change their mind it would be easy and just say they are producing the Lion loco and the rest of the model moved around to say railroad. Simon K has made it very clear in both Hornby series he’s going to go after ‘their models’, although how Lion fits that I don’t know, and he’s stepped across into making them seem like bullies rather than the victim with the antics as a result. Comprising a 0-4-2 tank locomotive, RN 1401, Lowmac wagon with coach body load and a Western region brake van.I would have thought that the TT connection to Lion would have been so obvious from the start that that’s the first thing Hornby should have sorted out, but there you go: eye off the ball, or too many assumptions not being checked? When a rival bus company sabotages the newly acquired train prior to an official inspection, the villagers resurrect the line’s first locomotive, Thunderbolt, and, against great odds, obtain permission to keep their line open. Hornby 'heard about' the other Lion and Titfield products when they approached Studio Canal for the licence and were told that it had already be acquired by another manufacturer.

But we still have the idiotic situation of two manufacturers producing a model of Lion, which is likely to be of limited interest. I have based my previous comments on my belief that Hornby had been planning/developing their range after the success of ROCKET.If you Watch Rapido trains latest video on their YouTube channel, you will see they have an exclusive contract with studio canal the rights holder of titfield thunderbolt, they have advised they will vigourously defend the copyright as they describe Hornby have yet again steamrolled their way in. Yes the film aspect is a great idea and St Trinians would be a fun set with some thought on the accessories. This isn't the first time Hornby have made a Titfield-related set; their 2013 catalogue lists R3186 - "Trains on Film: 'The Titfield Thunderbolt' Train Pack", containing an all-over black 14xx, attempt at Dan's house on the Loriot Y, and a brakevan. Hornby have lost my loyalty and sympathy for the top brass antics but seeing the same in many companies I’ll vote with my wallet where there’s an alternative.