Family Fun with the Hornby Railroad Range. The first Hornby model train was made in 1920 by Frank Hornby. His tinplated train filled a gap that German toys had left behind. The original trains were run by clockwork, but by the 1930′s the switch to electric had occurred. As the way the trains were powered evolved, so did the details of the trains. The quality of the materials, the paint and finish received special attention in the manufacture of the trains.

The product line should appeal to most collectors. The current catalogue has a variety of accessories, track, buildings, rolling stock, and locomotives. The product range is affordable enough for beginning collectors to start to experience what it’s like being a model train collector. It may very well become a stepping stone to additional model train collections, while honoring one of the first toys created after World War II.

One particular product line that should be considered for the younger modeller is the Hornby Railroad Range. It is made for more wear and tear, so there is less detail than normal products made by the company. Others who might consider this line of locomotives are those who wish to add their own detail to their models. A train set in this model line would make an ideal gift for a child because it can provide educational value and enjoyment.

Whilst this range may not have the detail of the standard Hornby range, it must be pointed out that all the models have the same hook and bar type couplings that the rest of the hornby range enjoy, including the famous Thomas the Tank Engine.

Locomotives, like the Tornado, in the Railroad line are based off of actual trains. The Tornado first hit life-size tracks in 2008. The recently released Railroad model of the Tornado is a good value for younger modellers, while older modellers can look forward a high spec Tornado model in the future. The idea should be appealing to parents that they can own a highly detailed model of a train, while their child can play with a less detailed and more affordable model.

As well as the Tornado model, Hornby have introduced this year the A1 Class Flying Scotsman, a British Rail class 9f Cock O The North, a Great Western Railway County Class and a Southern Railways Schools Class. For diesel enthusiasts there is the Class 47 Northern Belle Pullman.

The Hornby Railroad Range has been extended this year (2012) by the addition of the following steam locos: A1 Class Flying Scotsman, a British Rail class 9f Cock O The North, a Great Western Railway County Class and a Southern Railways Schools Class. For diesel enthusiasts there is the Class 47 Northern Belle Pullman. A new wagon pack containing three mineral open wagons will be available from May 2012 onwards.