May 2004 - News

This page displays news for the current month. To view a previous months news Click here
Do you have any news or information not listed here, if so please e-mail me

 

FOR SALE

To view surplus items from my collection for sale CLICK HERE

 


 

CORGI OOC AND CORGI CLASSICS JULY TO DECEMBER 2004 CLICK HERE TO VIEW IMAGES

 

LT MUSEUM ACTON OPEN WEEKEND 5/6 JUNE
I have received various reports that in the Metro Newspaper (a free London daily) they stated that at the above open weekend there would be "the opportunity to purchase a brand new model bus to be launched especially for the open weekend". I have contacted the London Transport Museum who replied as follows. "
we had planned a model for Acton ages ago (Another Titan) but this has not been possible to achieve, as EFE schedules have not permitted this". They go on to say however that "we have a very limited number of green RT's (Route 370 Tilbury Ferry) left after the pre sold mail order for sale at Acton. 1st come first served, one per customer @ £22.99 each.

Saturday 29 May 2004


CONFIRMED RELEASES FROM CORGI OOC
I can confirm that the following model has now been released and is on sale:
OM43309 Plaxton Excalibur Oxford Bus Co - The Airline

CONFIRMED RELEASES FROM CREATIVE MASTER NORTHCORD LTD
I can confirm that the following models have now been released in the UK and are on sale:
UKBUS2007 Plaxton President Mayne, Manchester
HKBUS2002 Leyland Olympian Coach Bluebird Buses

CONFIRMED RELEASES FROM EFE
I can confirm that the following models have now been released and are on sale:
11113 Leyland RTL London Transport
20432 Bristol VR3 Devon General

Friday 28 May 2004


BRITBUS NEW PACKAGING - MORE PHOTOGRAPHS
Further to my news article of this morning, I have uploaded four more photographs showing the new packaging. Click on the links below to view:

Photograph 1 CLICK HERE
Photograph 2 CLICK HERE
Photograph 3 CLICK HERE 
Photograph 4 CLICK HERE

Thursday 27th May 2004 (Second posting)


PRESS RELEASE FROM BRITBUS

The forthcoming South Yorkshire PTE SCANIA - METROPOLITAN model number N6502 will be the first model to be released in a  new style of Britbus packaging.

The new packaging has been developed and tested extensively and has passed all tests well. The change in the packaging style is the direct result of numerous and varied comments from our UK Agents (JOHN AYREY DIECASTS LTD), retailers and  the most important people - our customers.

As the clear plastic material used is flexible there is less likelihood of the cracking and breakages that are inherent with the hard plastic boxes used by some manufacturers. It is possible to fold the base outers of the pack flat but only to a limited degree within reason- so it can be a space saving item for those that wish to display their individual models in closed wall or other type display cases 

The model can be easily seen in its entirety and there are none of those over tightened or stripped Phillip head screws we have become so used to and in fact utilises what has been found to be the least damaging method of holding the models securely. It is basically a combination of the better factors as proven with time.

There is a cardboard sleeve similar to the one used on our Britbus hard plastic box  but the whole package is reduced in size and weight . The samples shown in the photos do not show the stick on label that will be placed on each end of this new pack. This label will be so placed that it will not interfere with the high visual view of the model contained in the pack.

 

Click here for a higher resolution image
The above photograph shows the new style packaging. I hope to publish more photographs later today.

Photograph © Britbus

 

CREATIVE MASTER NORTHCORD LIMITED

PRESS RELEASE

A1 Service

----UKBUS1016 Alexander ALX 400 – Bodied Dennis Trident

A1 Service is a big name to British bus enthusiasts. Now, A1 Service is also a big name on the list of British bus replicas produced by Creative Master Northcord Limited (CMNL).

CMNL has just released the replica with A1 Service livery on its well-known casting – the Alexander ALX 400 bodied – Dennis Trident.

A1 Service is operated by Stagecoach Western Buses for whom the A1 Service trading name is an important link to the past and is an identity that is recognized both locally by bus passengers and nationally by bus enthusiasts.

21 ALX 400-bodied Dennis Tridents entered service with A1 Service on 31st October 2003, to replace a similar number of step-entrance Alexander-bodied Volvo Olympians. Those Tridents are really special if compared with other Tridents serving in the Stagecoach fleet as they were the first provincial buses within the Stagecoach Group to be fitted with plasma screens, linked to video recording equipment. The model replicates fleet number 18000 – SF53 BZG.

The replica features excellent detailing, inside and out, including an opening engine door and engine detail. This is a one-piece casting whose clean lines accentuate the windows and livery application on which all logos and lettering are clearly legible, including the LED lights at the back. The model has no ugly metal poles to hold it together. The most outstanding feature on the model is the additional plasma screen on the upper deck

The brand new A1 Service model is based on a Limited Edition of 1800 pieces produced. They will be distributed by John Ayrey Die-Casts Limited (UK), Porte Publishing Company (Japan) and Concorde Hobby Shop (HK) respectively.

Creative Master Northcord Limited (CMNL)

------The World’s Miniature Bus Co

 

Click here for a higher resolution image

This photograph shows the production version of this model

Photograph © Creative Master Northcord Ltd

6.15am Thursday 27 May 2004


CREATIVE MASTER NORTHCORD - PRESS RELEASE

Dennis Mini Pointer Dart

UKBUS3003 - Metroline

Since Creative Master Northcord Limited (CMNL) released its launch model of the third casting in its famous UKBUS series, a Plaxton Pointer-bodied Dennis Dart (MPD) in Cardiff Bus livery, collectors have agreed that CMNL has once again set new standards for British bus models. 

CMNL is now releasing a second livery on this casting. The Metroline MPD replica carries the fleet number DLM 160 and the registration number Y151 NLK. DLM 160 is the last of a batch of 9 9.8 metre Dennis Darts with Plaxton MPD Pointer bodywork delivered to Metroline in 2001.

This is a one-piece casting whose clean lines accentuate the gasket windows and livery application on which all logos and lettering are clearly legible. The model also features excellent detailing, inside and out, including an opening engine door, showing the detailed 1:76 scale environmentally friendly Euro 3 engine.

The Metroline MPD replica features special equipment on board and the required graphics for Transport for London bus services. It features a partition between the driving area and the front corridor of the bus. The mirrors on the model are in the yellow colour that is also a standard feature of Metroline buses in serving in London. All grab rails feature inside the replica and in their correct positions. The construction method of this replica permits realistic-looking front and rear lights – in particular the front headlamp/indicator assembly and rear stop/tail units.

The brand new UKBUS3003 Metroline MPD bus models will be distributed by John Ayrey Die-Casts Limited (UK), Porte Publishing Company (Japan) and Concorde Hobby Shop (HK) respectively.

Creative Master Northcord Limited (CMNL)

------The World’s Miniature Bus Co.

6.15 am Monday 24 May 2004


NEW MODELS ANNOUNCED BY EFE
My copy of the EFE 4th Subscriber mailing of 2004 arrived today and carries details of a number of new models as follows:

20433 Bristol VR3 Alder Valley
29005 GM Standard Fleetline - Swindon
29402 Bristol RELH Coach - United
30201 RM1 Routemaster Prototype - London Transport

Further details and photographs of the above models will be published as soon as they are available.

The mailing also carries details of two EFE subscriber special models as follows (click on the links beside each model to view photographs of them):
27212 Leyland TD1 (open) - Brighton Le Sands Mascot Railway CLICK HERE
27213 Leyland TD1 (open) - Cronulla CLICK HERE

Both of the above models have been produced for Trux in Australia and a small quantity have been made available to EFE Subscribers. 

CODE 2 EFE MODEL COMMISSIONED BY LOTS
I am advised that to celebrate their 40th birthday LOTS have commissioned a code 2 EFE model. The following is an extract from the current LOTS newsletter:

"To commemorate our 40th Anniversary, we expect to have a LOTS bus model, first available at the AGM. We will have a specially commissioned limited edition model from EFE, appropriately featuring RM1964. Unlike most other models which depict routes, it will be in 'ex works, on delivery' condition. Each purchaser will receive an individually numbered certificate. It will be sold only to LOTS members, with proof of membership (a current membership card or a recent TLB address label is best), and only one model per person. It is a limited edition, and will be sold on a first come, first served basis. We regret that, logistically, we are unable to offer this model via Postal Sales. Any un-sold at the AGM will be available from our sales stand. We are due to attend the Holloway Garage open day on Sat 26th June, and North Weald on Sun 27th June".

Saturday 22 May 2004


CONFIRMED RELEASES FROM BRITBUS
I can confirm that the following models have been released and are on sale:
N6402A MCW Metropolitan Merseyside PTE
N6402B MCW Metropolitan Merseyside PTE

NEWS FROM THE LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM
The Museum have issued a letter to Standing Order customers updating on previously announced and some new models. I have included a few extracts from the letter as follows:

"At last we have dispatched two of the long awaited special models. The red STL and the green RT on Route 370. The second green RT on Route 353X is expected with us shortly, and will be dispatched upon receipt. Unfortunately, the green STL as advertised, will not be available to us for the foreseeable future. EFE recently informed us that some of the allocated vehicles, upon closer inspection, were not of a satisfactory quality, and all have been withdrawn"

LT Museum Set 12: "Please note that there is an order form attached for our new Bus Set 12, the prototype Routemasters, which feature a revised front-end casting. This set is due at the end of July to coincide with the 50 years of Routemaster event at Finsbury Park. The higher cost of  this set reflects the very limited use from this casting. All orders for Set 12 from our Standing Order Customers (along with the first counter orders) will be treated as PRIORITY. Please note if you have already ordered at the shop counter, YOU DO NOT NEED TO ORDER AGAIN".

I have received a number of requests asking me to forward a copy of the Order Form when received, to save me doing this I have uploaded a copy to the site. To view a copy of the order form (in Microsoft Word format). Please note after viewing the form click on the back button on your browser to return to the News Page.

(Update 19 October 2004 please check availability with LT Museum - order form now deleted from this site)

New models: "We expect a number of new EFE Museum special models to be released over the next few  months. They include:
Routemaster RM Gold Type1 £22.99 For Finsbury Park (no mail order)
Routemaster RM Gold Type2 £22,99 For Finsbury Park (no mail order) 
Routemaster RML2360 £22.99 Special livery for Standing Order customers
Routemaster RML2403 £22.99 Special livery for Standing Order customers"

Further details of the above models will be given as soon as they are known.

Friday 21 May 2004


BRITBUS NEW MCW METROPOLITAN MODEL - PHOTOGRAPHS
Further to my news article of this morning, I have uploaded a series of early pre-production sample photographs sent to me by Britbus. Click on the link beside each model (below) to view the photograph. Please note some of the details of the models shown may be subject to change.

N6105 Scania Metropolitan - Culture Bus Sightseeing - Nearside View CLICK HERE
N6105 Scania Metropolitan - Culture Bus Sightseeing - Offside View CLICK HERE

N6209 Scania Metropolitan - G & G Of Leamington -
Nearside View CLICK HERE
N6209 Scania Metropolitan - G & G Of Leamington - Offside View CLICK HERE
N6502 Scania Metropolitan - South Yorkshire
-
Nearside View CLICK HERE

ANOTHER BRITISH MODEL BUSES EXCLUSIVE
Further to the two exclusive EFE model photographs published last evening, I am able to publish a further exclusive photograph this evening. This one being of the following model:
29901A AEC 10T10 Greenline Cobham Bus Museum Special

 

Click here for a higher resolution image
The Cobham Bus Museum have advised me that the model will be on sale at their running days on 30th May and 20th June.

Photograph courtesy of EFE © www.britishmodelbuses.com

(Second news posting) Thursday 20 May 2004 


NEW MODELS ANNOUNCED BY BRITBUS
I have just received an email from Britbus giving details of three new models, I hope to publish photographs of them this evening:

N6105 Scania Metropolitan - Culture Bus Sightseeing
N6209 Scania Metropolitan - G & G Of Leamington

N6502 Scania Metropolitan - South Yorkshire

Britbus have also provided additional details for the previously announced Charles Cook Coaches model as follows:

N6208 MCW Metropolitan will now comprise two versions A and B and a total production run in the region of 1008 pieces in total for the two. It is anticipated that the two versions will be dispatched to the UK within the next few weeks. Version A will be as previously announced. Version B details as follows:
Registration number: KJD 218P
Destination: St. Neots/School journey to Stotfold.

06.15am Thursday 20 May 2004


EXCLUSIVE PHOTOGRAPHS
Please find below photographs exclusive to British Model Buses showing firstly a "Taster photograph" of an early PP sample of the re-tooled EFE RM1 and secondly this years EFE Code 2 North Weald model. Please note these photographs are strictly copyright to British Model Buses and must not be used on any other web site/publication.

 

Click here for a higher resolution image
The photograph above shows an early PP sample of the re-tooled Routemaster model of RM1. Further photographs and details will be published as soon as they are available.

Photograph courtesy of EFE © www.britishmodelbuses.com

 

Click here for a higher resolution image
The photograph above shows an early PP sample of this years North Weald model. Please see my news article of 10 May for full details of how to order.

Photograph courtesy of EFE © www.britishmodelbuses.com

CREATIVE MASTER NORTHCORD LTD UKBUS0003 CITY SIGHTSEEING - DUBLIN TOUR
Further to my news article of last evening, shown below is a photograph of the production version of the above model.

 

Click here for a higher resolution image

Photograph © Creative Master Northcord Ltd

Wednesday 19 May 2004


CREATIVE MASTER NORTHCORD LTD PRESS RELEASE

City Sightseeing Dublin Tour

UKBUS0003

Guinness Storehouse, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Dublin Tour, are no longer on the promotional materials for Dublin only. They are also icons on 1:76 open top bus replica.

Creative Master Northcord Limited (CMNL) is proud to announce the imminent release of its third specially commissioned model. In this instance the model has been commissioned by City Sightseeing and appears in the livery of City Sightseeing Dublin Tour. The base for this special model is the Plaxton President Open-top Dennis Trident casting and the model is certain to be a collectible item due to the precise application of the City Sightseeing Dublin livery. The model is numbered UKBUS0003 in a special series for commissioned models.

The eye-catching livery is applied with care to ensure that its multi-faceted icons and motifs are represented like in real life. The smooth sides of the Plaxton President base model assist in the application of the complex livery and ensure that no detail is lost.

This replica is a one-piece casting whose construction ensures that there are no ugly metal poles to hold it together.

The City Sightseeing (London) bus models will be distributed by John Ayrey Die-Casts Limited (UK), SJ Enterprises Limited (Ireland), Porte Publishing Company (Japan) and Concorde Hobby Shop (HK) respectively. These models will also be available through certain City Sightseeing outlets.

 

EFE MODELS SCHEDULED FOR RELEASE WEEK COMMENCING 24 MAY 2004
EFE have advised me that the following models are scheduled for release next week:
11113 Leyland RTL London Transport
20432 Bristol VR3 Devon General

Tuesday 18 May 2004


CONFIRMED RELEASES FROM THE LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM
Further to my news article of 2 May 2004, I can confirm that the following models have now been dispatched to subscribers:

27807B AEC STL London Transport (Red)
10132B AEC RT London Transport (Green)

Saturday 15 May 2004


CONFIRMED RELEASES FROM CORGI OOC
I can confirm that the following models have now been released and are on sale:
OM41203 Wright Eclipse Gemini (1 Door) 10.6m Travel West Midlands
OM43706 BUT 9641T Trolleybus Glasgow Corporation

CONFIRMED RELEASES FROM EFE
I can confirm that the following models have now been released and are on sale:
28808 Leyland Titan Metroline
24322 BET Leyland Tiger Cub Stratford Blue
26804 Leyland Tiger Duple Wallace Arnold

Friday 14 May 2004


CORGI OOC JULY TO DECEMBER 2004 NEW PHOTOGRAPHS
Corgi have now released the official media photographs of the new models from their July to December 2004 catalogue. I have replaced the scanned images previously displayed on the site with the new high quality photographs.

CLICK HERE to view.

BRITBUS RELEASES
Britbus have advised me that the two MCW Metropolitan Merseyside models N6402A and N6402B have now been dispatched to the UK from Hong Kong and should arrive towards the end of this week. It is expected that the models will be released shortly after that.

In an amendment to the release programme Britbus have advised that the next model to be released after the Merseyside models will be N6005 Guy Arab IV Southdown (date not known at this time).

Thursday 13 May 2004


NORTH WEALD MODEL 2004
This year the North Weald model will be an STD. The donor model will be 20203, recently issued by EFE. All the work will be carried out by EFE and the model will carry full Code 2 status.

Model details:
Fleet number: STD 137
Registration Number: HLW 66
Route: 20A
Destination: Debden Station
Adverts: Side adverts for the event.
Quantity: About 500 certificated pieces.

The model will be available on the day of the North Weald rally 27th June priced at £22.00 or mail order in advance.

For mail order the price is £22.00 plus £1.50 p & p. Models will be posted about the time of the rally, cheques will not be banked until about one week before despatch.

Cheques should be made payable to Colin Penn and sent to:

Peter Coe
London Bus Retail
10 Hurst Close
Headley
Surrey
KT18 6DZ

SOUTHSEA RALLY MODEL 2004
Please note there will not be a rally at Southsea this year and consequently there will be no model.

Monday 10 May 2004


CONFIRMED RELEASE FROM COUNTRY BUS RALLIES
I can confirm that the following Code 3 model has now been released:
CBR012 (EG04) AEC RT London Transport.

Sunday 9 May 2004


CONFIRMED RELEASE FROM BRITBUS
I can confirm that the following model has now been released and is on sale:
N6401 MCW Metropolitan WYPTE

Saturday 8 May 2004


CORGI OOC RELEASES SCHEDULED FOR WEEK COMMENCING 10 MAY 2004
The following models are scheduled for release next week:
OM41203 Wright Eclipse Gemini (1 Door) 10.6m Travel West Midlands
OM43706 BUT 9641T Trolleybus Glasgow Corporation

EFE RELEASES SCHEDULED FOR WEEK COMMENCING 10 MAY 2004
The following models are scheduled for release next week:
28808 Leyland Titan Metroline
24322 BET Leyland Tiger Cub Stratford Blue
26804 Leyland Tiger Duple Wallace Arnold

CONFIRMED RELEASE FROM BRITBUS
I can confirm that the following model has now been released:
N6104 MCW Metropolitan West Midlands PTE

CONFIRMED RELEASE IN UK FROM CREATIVE MASTER NORTHCORD LTD
I can confirm that the following model has now been released in the UK:
UKBUS1013 Dennis Trident ALX400 Dublin Bus

Friday 7 May 2004


NEW MODEL ANNOUNCED BY BRITBUS
Britbus have announced a new MCW Metropolitan model as follows, please see photograph below showing a pre-production sample:

N 6208
MCW Metropolitan
Charles Cook Coaches
Destination: Stevenage
Route number: -
Registration number: KJD 241P
Fleet number: -
Quantity: 1008
Due May 2004 

 

Click here for a higher resolution image

This photograph shows a pre-production sample of this model

Photograph © Britbus

 

IMPENDING RELEASES FROM THE LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM
I am advised by The Museum that two of the models that have been outstanding for over 18 months are to be released shortly. I understand that they will begin processing the orders this week. Please note: I have reported previously that these models sold out (pre-orders to Museum Subscribers) when first announced and none will be available for general sale. The models in question are as follows:

27807B
AEC STL
London Transport (Red)
Fleet number STL1950
Registration number: DLU 305
Route Number: 294
Destination: Liverpool Street
Advertising: Jantzen Swimming Suits, Monthly Return tickets and Picture Post

10132B
AEC RT
London Transport (Green)
Fleet number RT1068
Registration number: JXN 96
Route Number: 370
Destination: Tilbury Ferry
Advertising: Green Rover

Sunday 2 May 2004


May 2004 - News

This page last updated Monday, 25 February 2013

© British Model Buses 2004