Hornby Accessories - London Transport Sentinel DL81

Discover the charm of railway history with the Hornby Accessories - London Transport Sentinel DL81, a meticulously crafted model designed for avid collectors and railway enthusiasts alike. The Sentinel DL81 model, from the renowned Hornby range, mimics the original 0-6-0 design used to replace the outdated pannier tank engines, showcasing exquisite detailing and robust performance. With roots tracing back to the Sentinel Waggon Works and a production history that dates back to 1960, this die-cast model celebrates a significant chapter in British rail history.

This Hornby Sentinel features a powerful 8-cylinder engine simulation and is DCC ready for seamless digital railway operation. Enhanced detailing elements like realistic dumb buffers and NEM pocket covering plates make this model perfect for both industrial and small layouts. The London Transport livery adds a touch of authenticity, reminiscent of its days serving London’s busy railways. As you build your model railway, the Sentinel DL81 becomes an essential centerpiece, combining historical significance with modern modeling precision.

Ideal for both beginners and seasoned modellers, the Hornby London Transport Sentinel DL81 is a remarkable addition to your collection that encapsulates the elegance and functionality of rail transport. Don’t miss the chance to own this exquisite piece of history; it’s more than just a model—it's a story waiting to be told on your railway landscape.

HOR R30306 Hornby London Transport, Sentinel, 0-6-0, DL. 81 - Era 7- 2023 Catalogue
Founded as Ally & MacLellan, Glasgow in 1875 and then later known as the Sentinel Waggon Works Ltd, the company went through various place and name changes until in 1957 Sentinel (Shrewsbury) Ltd was obtained by Rolls-Royce. At that time Sentinel were producing steam locomotives and lorries, but the manufacturing of these vehicles ceased in 1958. In 1959, Sentinel produced a prototype diesel shunter which was operated on the military controlled Shropshire & Montgomeryshire Railway. In total 17 were produced and operated quite successfully during that year.
The 0-6-0 Sentinel was a larger version of their first 0-4-0 example. The first such 0-6-0 example was built in 1960, with full production beginning the following year with over 100 examples being built before the end of 1971. The locomotives were fitted with 8 cylinder 325 horsepower engines. So successful was the 0-6-0 design that the a further 36 examples were built in Lisbon by Sorefame, where they were designated the Class 1151.
London Transport acquired three examples from an iron ore mine, not new, in 1971. These locomotives were intended to replace pannier tank engines still in operation and would be painted in a similar colour to their predecessors original GWR green. Each of these Sentinel locomotives would find itself coupled to a tender permanently, this tender would take the form of a bogie removed from an old district line stock unit. DL81 would be withdrawn in 1993 alongside it's two sisters and sold in to private use. Following this, it would find itself preserved at Rocks by Rail in Cottesmore.
The Hornby 0-6-0 Sentinel is a recently tooled model and a perfect addition to any small or industrial layout. The model is 6 pin DCC ready allowing for digital operation. The London Transport model features some enhanced detailing such as dumb buffers, NEM pocket covering plates and a prototypical trip cock by the wheelset.