A MODEL locomotive to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the Great Western Railway is steaming off the shelves.

The idea to recreate a miniature Castle Class Swindon 7037 00 Gauge – the last of its kind to be made in Swindon – came from model railway enthusiast Kevin Shurmer and Ian Surtees, the events manager at Steam.

The pair took the idea to Hornby, which produced the detailed engine with its new upgraded tooling.

“It’s an exquisite model of the last train made in Swindon in 1950 and we have a limited edition of just 1,000 exclusive to Steam,” said Kevin.

The model comes in a presentation box with an authenticity certificate and a souvenir book partly written by music producer and well-known train buff, Pete Waterman.

It has been sold to GWR fans as far away as Australia, Japan, USA and China.

Ian said: “It has been so successful we are considering options for the next model.”

The Swindon costs £129.99 with a £30 deposit and is only available from Steam or by calling 01793 466626.