TT3048M Hornby Virgin Class 43 HST Train Pack 43097 + 43093

New release - pre-orders invited - expected during 3rd Quarter 2025. preauthkernow

Bringing the speed and style of the late 1990s to TT:120 scale, the Virgin Trains Class 43 HST Train Pack, contains a motorised and unmotorised power cars numbered 43093 ‘Lady in Red’ and 43097 in their bold red and white livery. This newly tooled model captures the sleek, aerodynamic design of the HST, complete with accurately reproduced branding and detailing. A powerful 5-pole skew wound motor delivers smooth and reliable performance, while directional lighting, brings an extra touch of realism. Interior lighting highlights the detail inside, creating an immersive experience whether running at full speed or waiting at the platform, with an 18-pin DCC Ready socket and NEM tension lock couplings to ensure easy connection with additional rolling stock. Pair the Virgin Class 43 HST Train Pack with Virgin HST Mk3 coaches for a realistic high-speed setup.

Virgin Trains won both the InterCity West Coast and InterCity CrossCountry franchises following privatisation of BR, commencing services under its Virgin branding in 1997. It inherited a variety of locomotives and rolling stock from BR, including InterCity 125 HST sets. Class 43 power car 43093 had been named ‘York Festival 88’ under BR, but was renamed ‘Lady in Red’ in 1997, which it carried until 2003, while 43097 had been called ‘The Light Infantry’ until 1990, but entered service with Virgin CrossCountry without a name. Both were painted in the company’s red and black livery, with white markings, but later became part of First Great Western’s HST fleet. In the Train Pack, 43093 is the powered vehicle, while 43097 is non-powered.