The 2027 Railway Modeller Special brings together 124 pages of railway modelling inspiration, fascinating projects and stories from across the hobby. Among its many features are three articles with particularly close connections to PECO, exploring our heritage, modelling products and manufacturing expertise.
From a locomotive that proudly carried the PECO name to a closer look at the production of our model railway track, these features offer an interesting insight into the people, products and history behind the name.
Here's a closer look at what's inside.
The Life and Work of 56 302
Few locomotives have a connection to PECO quite like Class 56 locomotive 56 302.
Originally built at BREL Crewe in 1983 as 56 124, the locomotive went on to receive several different identities before being named PECO - The Railway Modeller - 2016 70 Years at Minehead on the West Somerset Railway. The naming ceremony marked the 70th anniversary of PECO in 2016.
In the 2027 Railway Modeller Special, Steve Haynes recounts how a chance conversation led to the locomotive receiving its distinctive name. The article follows its story through to withdrawal in 2026 and its subsequent new life in Ghana.
It's a fascinating piece of railway history, with a particularly special connection to PECO.
Getting Started in 7mm Narrow Gauge
For those interested in exploring narrow gauge modelling, the 2027 Special also features a project centred on the PECO Glyn Valley Tramway brake van kit (OR167).
Herbert Fackeldey takes on the laser-cut kit, offering an introduction to building in 7mm narrow gauge, or O-16.5.
The Glyn Valley Tramway brake van provides an interesting starting point for anyone looking to try something different, while demonstrating the possibilities of the PECO narrow gauge collection.
Rail Made in Beer, Devon
The PECO manufacturing story continues with another important development at our headquarters in Beer, Devon.
As part of the company's 80th anniversary celebrations, nickel silver rail production has returned to Beer, bringing this important part of track manufacturing in-house.
The 2027 Railway Modeller Special takes readers behind the scenes at the new Rail Manufacturing Unit, introducing the specialist who established the operation and exploring how nickel silver wire is transformed into code 75 bullhead rail.
It's an opportunity to discover more about the processes, machinery and expertise involved in producing PECO track, and the continued investment in British manufacturing.
For a closer look at the story, read our feature Celebrating 80 Years: Nickel Silver Rail Returns to Beer.
Discover More in the 2027 Railway Modeller Special
These three features offer just a glimpse of what's included in the 2027 Railway Modeller Special, bringing together stories of railway heritage, modelling projects and the people and processes behind PECO.
The 2027 Railway Modeller Special (RMS27) is published on 3 December 2026. With 124 pages in a perfect-bound format and an RRP of £12.95, it's a valuable addition to your Railway Modeller and publications range.
For full publication details and retailer ordering information, visit the product page below.
