While we were at the Dinky Fair the other week, Woodsy pointed out to me this large plastic Diesel model, and insisted it was like one that was used in Gerry Anderson's Secret Service.
Well, of course, he was absolutely spot on. The episode was' Last Train To Bufflers Halt' and the model used was the Blue Flyer Locomotive from The Big Big Passenger Train set by Triang.
Needless to say I bought it, along with some track and a couple of carriages. Not being a train buff I thought I'd better gen up on my new found treasure.
These are some pictures from Bill, who, not surprisingly was also fully aware of the Big Big Train toy.
Anyway, for anyone else like me who was unaware of this toy here's a brief history.
The Big Big Train is an O gauge system produced by Tri-ang in 1966. These continued to be made until 1972. The larger, but less detailed scale and robust plastic design meant it was ideal for younger children and anyone wanting to fix and run their model railway outdoors.
When production ceased, the tools were bought by Novo toys, who restarted manufacture in the USSR from 1975 to 1980.
My example is that type.
This battery powered toy also boasted a unique switch system which, when using a device attached to the track could flip the engine into reverse.
Anyway, once I got mine working, I figured the best way to showcase my Big Big Train was to film it in action.
Hope you like it.
Fun film Scoop!! Careful with those trains - they can become addictive
ReplyDelete:-)
Funny you should say that, Ed. I am keeping my eyes open for accessories .
ReplyDeleteGreat cats!
ReplyDeletei see poor Felix is still missing the pub!
ReplyDeleteGreat vid scoop, youre raising the bar for blog posts even higher! love the bit with the camera on the wagon.
Superb. I wouldn't trust my camera to ride in a train by itself. Great video.
ReplyDeleteBrilliant post Scoop. Glad it all worked out. It was a lot of fun watching you buy it all at the Reebok. The finished result is brill and your little movie is great. Its cool to imagine that Derek Meddings and co went out to the local toy shop and bought a big big train for filming just like you did! In one of the Andersonic magazines there's an interview with Mike Trim and he mentions that Big Big Train was used by the effects and model team at C21. Your'e cintuing that tradition!
ReplyDeleteCheers everyone, glad you all seemed to like my little amateur effort - I just wanted to film it! Of course the off screen atagaism between the moggy leads meant great on screen chemistry.
ReplyDeleteI had this train set as a child and spent plenty of hours playing. I have no idea what happened to it. Very sad :(
ReplyDeleteHave a look on youtube for my radio controlled Big Big Hymek. Great fun to drive.
ReplyDelete