Corgi Douglas™ AC-47 Gunship ‘Spooky 086™’ CAF Gulf Coast Wing (1:72)

Douglas™ AC-47 Gunship ‘Spooky 086™’ CAF Gulf Coast Wing (1:72)   When it comes to allowing the public to interact with historic aeroplanes, nobody does so quite like the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). Honouring the heroes of yesterday by inspiring the heroes of tomorrow, those involved with CAF are dedicated to this vital mission, inspiring millions of people by educating them about their aircraft and the people who built, flew, and maintained them. One of the latest aircraft to join the CAF fleet is a Douglas AC-47 Gunship, known as ‘Spooky 086.’ The aircraft is assigned to the CAF’s Texas-based Gulf Coast Wing, where members have worked hard to prepare it for its debut on the US historic aviation scene. The AC-47 is a beautiful example of the fire support platforms that served with distinction during the Vietnam War.  This aircraft was originally built as a C-47B in 1944 and later assigned to the US Navy as an R4D-6. Although this aircraft didn’t serve in Vietnam, the CAF intends for this project to highlight the aircraft's adaptability, which enabled its conversion into an airborne fire support platform 25 years after it was originally built.  Spooky gunships could loiter over a battlefield, circling and concentrating fire, making them an effective early counterinsurgency aircraft. The code markings worn by “Spooky 086” do not designate a specific AC-47 that served but rather pay tribute to 86 individual AC-47 crew members who lost their lives whilst serving during the Vietnam War.

Corgi Ford Fiesta Mk2 1.1L, Citrine Yellow (1:43)

Ford Fiesta Mk2 1.1L, Citrine Yellow The Fiesta modelled was supplied new by Ford main dealers Gilbert Rice Ltd, Sussex, and first registered on 31st January 1986. Its first four owners looked after it very well and used it sparingly. In the summer of 2016, it was offered for sale by well-known classic car dealers KGF Classic Cars, having covered 40,679 miles.  The mileage was confirmed by an accompanying history file containing a brochure, invoices and previous MOT certificates, as well as the original service wallet and handbook. Remarkably, the car’s grey ‘Fife’ trim was perfect, and it also still boasted its original dealership-stamped number plates, which is unusual as these often get damaged in low-speed parking incidents. It was purchased on 26th July 2016 by lifelong Mk2 Fiesta enthusiast Christian ‘Bisty’ Dann, a restaurateur from Cornwall who has grown up in a family that are passionate about classic cars. He christened her ‘Geraldine’ and created a popular TikTok account called ‘geraldinethefiesta’, which features films about Geraldine’s adventures in Cornwall and Bisty’s other classic, an American-built 1974 GMC van he uses to offer grilled cheese delicacies to the people of Falmouth.  In 2020, Geraldine needed some welding to pass her MOT and Bisty decided to have new sills fitted on both sides by local specialist Perranwell Garage, who also carried out some major engine work and various other jobs in order to make her as good as new in every respect. - 1:43 Scale

Corgi P-47D Thunderbolt - 42-8500/HO-P - ‘Cripes A’ MIGHTY’ (1:72)

Republic P-47D Thunderbolt - 42-8500/HO-P - ‘Cripes A’ MIGHTY’ This impressive Aviation Archive 1:72 scale model of the P-47D Thunderbolt is presented in a high-back configuration, and features a rotating propeller, optional undercarriage, and a display stand. The livery represents an aircraft flown by a legendary future American ace. We’ve only made 1,100 of these limited-edition Republic P-47D Thunderbolt die-cast models. History Although remembered as the top-scoring Mustang ace in the European Theatre of Operations (ETO), George E. Preddy Jr. actually made his ETO combat debut flying the P-47 Thunderbolt. Whilst he did score his first three victories flying this massive fighter, things weren’t always without incident. After downing his third Luftwaffe fighter, Preddy and his wingman, Lt. William Whisner, were heading back to Bodney when Preddy’s Thunderbolt was hit by flak crossing the French coast. Whisner later reported seeing smoke billowing from the cockpit of Preddy’s fighter, and his leader taking to his parachute. Despite being low on fuel, Whisner remained circling above his leader until controllers confirmed a position fix, and that a rescue aircraft was on the way. When the Walrus did arrive, the sea was so rough that it ripped a float off the aircraft during landing. Although it was able to rescue Preddy, it had to be towed back to shore by an RAF rescue launch. All of George Preddy’s fighters in the ETO were named ‘Cripes A’ MIGHTY’, a term he heard people using for luck whilst playing the dice game craps. It appealed to him so much that he painted it on the fuselage of his Thunderbolt and all his future Mustangs. The 352nd began converting from P-47s to P-51B Mustangs in March 1944, and the rest is the stuff of USAAF ace pilot history. - 1:72 scale

Corgi English Electric Lightning F.6 RAF No. 5 Sqn Leconfield (1:48)

English Electric Lightning F.6 - RAF No. 5 Sqn - RAF Leconfield One of the most exciting RAF aeroplanes in aviation history, the English Electric Lightning F.6 makes a wonderful 1:48 scale die-cast model. This modern masterpiece is replicated in high detail, with removable engine and intake covers and even a crew ladder. The undercarriage is also removable and the box includes a stand so you can proudly display your model at the centre of your aviation collection. This die-cast model has a limited-edition run of only 1,200 units. - 1:48 Scale

Corgi Supermarine Spitfire T9 PV202 Aerial Collective Duxford (1:72)

Supermarine Spitfire T9 - PV202 - Aerial Collective - Duxford Airfield For millions of British people, the Supermarine Spitfire is much more than just an aeroplane. A fighter aircraft which was as deadly as it was beautiful to look at, the Spitfire stands as a symbol of the nation’s defiance in the face of tyranny, one which prevailed against seemingly insurmountable odds during the Battle of Britain, effectively removing the threat of invasion.  Even though the prototype Spitfire flew 89 years ago this March, the aircraft could probably claim to be even more famous now than it was back then, with airworthy examples of this magnificent aircraft gathering ever more admirers with each passing year. For those wishing to fly in a Spitfire, this dream held by so many people is now an achievable reality for those able to afford it, and for those who can, they have the very real possibility of being able to say, “I’ve flown a Spitfire!’  In order to do so, you need to speak to specialists like Duxford based Aerial Collective, and if you’re going to fly in a Spitfire, why not do so from the airfield which took delivery of the first service Spitfire back in the summer of 1938.  This beautiful Spitfire is one of their aircraft and is currently presented in the colours of Spitfire Mk.IX ML365, the personal aircraft of ace pilot Group Captain Peter Russell ‘Johnnie’ Walker CBE, DFC and DSO. Anyone fancy the flight of a lifetime? - Diecast Model - 1:72 Scale

Oxford Diecast Living Wagon Brown livery (1:76)

Living Wagon Brown livery The history of living wagons can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when nomadic peoples used them to travel from place to place. However, it was during the Victorian era that living wagons reached their peak of popularity. This was due in part to the rise of railroads, which made it easier for traveling people to transport their wagons over long distances. They were typically towed by horses or steam tractors, and were equipped with all the necessities of life, including kitchens, bedrooms, and sitting rooms. They offered a sense of freedom and independence. At a time when many people were tied to their homes and jobs, traveling people were able to roam the country freely and make their own living. Over time many were used by showmen as they travelled from fair to fair. - OO Scale

Oxford Diecast Alexander M Type Western (1:76)

Alexander M Type - Western Includes: - Detailed diecast model - Cab detail - Maroon moulded interior detail - Front grill and headlight features - Western Black/white livery - Display stand - OO Scale Vehicle information and history: The history of Western Scottish Bus Company can be traced back to 1929, when the Scottish General Transport Co. Ltd was renamed Western Scottish Motor Traction Co. Ltd. The company was formed as a result of the 1930 Road Traffic Act, which encouraged the consolidation of bus companies into larger groups. Western Scottish quickly became the largest bus operator in south west Scotland, with depots in Kilmarnock, Ayr, Cumnock, Girvan, Stranraer, Dumfries, Annan, Ardrossan, Carlisle, and Whithorn. The company operated a wide range of services, including local bus services, interurban connections, and cross-border journeys into north west England. In 1949, Western Scottish was nationalised and became part of the Scottish Bus Group. In 1985, in preparation for privatisation, the company was split into Clydeside Scottish and Western Scottish. Western Scottish was privatised in 1994 and was purchased by Stagecoach Group. The company was renamed Stagecoach Western Scottish and adopted the corporate Stagecoach white with red, blue and orange stripes livery. Stagecoach Western Scottish continued to expand its operations, purchasing Arran Transport in 1994 and A1 Service in 1995. The company also opened new depots in Brodick on the Isle of Arran and Dunoon in Argyll. In 2006, Stagecoach Western Scottish was merged with Stagecoach Strathtay to form Stagecoach West Scotland. The new company operates a fleet of over 1,000 buses and employs over 2,000 people. Today, Stagecoach West Scotland is one of the largest bus operators in Scotland, providing essential local bus services to communities across south west Scotland. The company also operates a number of intercity and express services, connecting towns and cities across Scotland and England. The Alexander M Type was a single-deck coach built by Alexander Bus Builders in Falkirk, Scotland in the early 1970s. It was developed for use by the Scottish Bus Group on its growing Anglo-Scottish motorway express services. The M Type was a popular choice with the Scottish Bus Group and other operators, and over 1,000 were built between 1974 and 1980. It was used on a wide range of services, including express services, long-distance tours and charter work. The M Type was gradually withdrawn from service in the early 1990s, as it was replaced by newer and more modern coaches.

Corgi Supermarine Spitfire T.9 TE308 (G-AWGB) Finished as A58-606 'Gre

Supermarine Spitfire T.9 TE308 (G-AWGB) Finished as A58-606 'Grey Nurse' Sharkmouth, operated by Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar Includes - Detailed diecast aircraft  - Cockpit interior and pilot detail - Engine exhaust and shark mouth detailing - Rotating prop - Optional Undercarriage (up or down positions) - Display stand - Collectors Card - 1:72 Scale   Aircraft information and history: As one of the most successful fighter aircraft of the Second World War and one which was produced in huge numbers, it can be a little surprising to learn that the Supermarine Spitfire was not produced in a two seat training variant during the war, meaning that pilots converting to this awesome machine would be making their first flight in the Spitfire as their first solo. The Vickers Supermarine company did propose the development of a two seat variant of the Spitfire to Air Ministry officials as far back as 1941, but as there was no official support for the project at the time, they simply returned to further development of single engined fighters. Once the war had ended, stories of unofficially modified two seat Spitfire projects started to circulate, with the ones produced by the Soviet Air Force being perhaps the most significant. Britain would eventually supply Russia with more than 1000 Spitfires and it was discovered that they actually converted several Spitfires to two seat configuration, however, rather than moving the front cockpit slightly forward as Vickers Supermarine would later do, the Russians elected to simply add a second cockpit behind the existing one, using a narrower section of the fuselage. Making these aircraft extremely distinctive, this also must have also created a rather claustrophobic working environment for the second pilot. With this information in hand, Vickers Supermarine revived their interest in producing a two seat Spitfire as a private venture and in 1946, selected a Spitfire Mk.VIII airframe as their donor aircraft. In fact, one of the most interesting facts about the two seat Spitfire variant is that there is no such thing as a new-build Spitfire T.9 trainer, because every single example was originally manufactured as a single seat fighter. Something of a post war phenomenon, the two seat Spitfire did attract several military operators over the years, including the Irish Air Corps, however, it is during the warbird restoration era and more specifically over the past two decades that the popularity of ‘Spitfires made for two’ has really become established. As arguably the most famous aircraft of all time, the ability to boast that you had flown in a Spitfire used to be the preserve of talented and extremely fortunate pilots, however, as they now had the opportunity to carry a passenger, the chance to fly in a Spitfire was now open to anyone and there has been no end of people desperate to have a Spitfire flying experience. Nowadays, offering Spitfire experience flights has become an extremely lucrative business, to a point where only a few years ago, almost every Spitfire under restoration was being converted to T.9 or two seat Spitfire standard. These aircraft are now much loved in their own right, regularly appearing at Airshows, in addition to operating in all but the poorest weather conditions, taking its latest lucky passenger on their Spitfire experience flight. These Spitfires made for two are maintaining and even enhancing the legacy of this magnificent aeroplane, bringing R.J Mitchell’s classic fighter to the attention of a new generation of Spitfire aficionados. Supermarine Spitfire TE307 was originally constructed as a Mk.IXe fighter variant in 1945, but due the end of the war in Europe, was immediately placed in storage, where she would remain for the next five years. She was then selected as a conversion airframe to T.9 trainer standard, initially earmarked for service with the Egyptian Air Force, but when this sale fell through, embarked on a service career flying with the Irish Air Corps. Following retirement and disposal, she would go on to be used during the filming of the famous move 'The Battle of Britain', before moving into private ownership and periods spent with different owners in France, Canada and the US over the next few decades. She would later be purchased by Warbird Experiences at Biggin Hill and returned to British skies at that time wearing the famous standard RAF wartime day fighter scheme, however, she was about to take on a very different persona. In a development which saw this aircraft become one of the most distinctive airworthy Spitfires in the world today, TE307 was given a smart new scheme in honour of the fighters flown by the men of No.457 Squadron Royal Australian Air Force during WWII. With each of their aircraft benefitting from the application of sinister looking shark mouths under the engine cowling, the unit was known as the 'Grey Nurse' Squadron and Spitfire TE307 now carries the registration A58-606 and the codes ZP-W in honour of Squadron Leader Bruce Watson, who flew with this unit. If you would like to fly in one of the most distinctive Spitfires in the world today, you need to get in touch with our friends at the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar and join the long queue of people hoping to have this unique aviation experience.

Oxford Diecast Land Rover Lightweight - Hard Top - Fred Dibnah (1:76)

Land Rover Lightweight - Hard Top - Fred Dibnah Includes: - Diecast model - Distinctive grill and front end - F Dibnah Steeplejack Bolton branding - Custom livery and paint finish - Spare Tyre on the front - Hard top rear - Wheel detail - Display stand - OO Scale Vehicle information and history: Fred Dibnah was an English steeplejack and television personality. He was born in Bolton, Lancashire, England, on 29 April 1938. He became a steeplejack in 1956, and worked on many of the industrial chimneys in the North West of England. He was also a keen collector of steam engines and other machinery. In 1973, Dibnah was featured in a documentary about steeplejacks for the BBC. The documentary was a success, and Dibnah went on to present a number of other television programmes about his work. He was also a regular contributor to radio and newspaper articles. Dibnah was known for his love of old machinery and his traditional methods of working. He was also a skilled storyteller, and his programmes were full of anecdotes and insights into the world of steeplejacking. Dibnah died on 6 November 2004, after a short battle with cancer. He was 66 years old. He was a popular and respected figure, and his death was mourned by many people. Dibnah's legacy lives on through his television programmes and his books. He is considered to be one of the most important figures in the history of steeplejacking, and his work helped to preserve a traditional craft.  

Oxford Diecast Ford Cargo Box Van - Royal Mail (1:76)

Ford Cargo Box Van Royal Mail Includes: - Detailed diecast model - Cab interior parts - Front grill and headlight parts - Underframe detail - Royal Mail branding - Trailer doors/ locking handle parts - Display stand - (1:76) OO Scale Vehicle information: Launched in 1981 by Ford UK, the Ford Cargo was a popular haulage option used by many large companies and continued until 1986 under the Ford name until they sold on their European truck operations to an Italian company IVECO, at which point all models carried the dual name. Dating from 1990 and registered G853 AMJ, our Ford Cargo Box Van with its Ford Iveco branding on the front, represents a vehicle used extensively by the Royal Mail, decorated in its signature bright red with Royal Cypher and Royal Mail lettering/yellow zigzag flash to the sides of the trailer. The rear carries the slogan 'Please use your Postcode' - which probably people needed reminding about in those days, before the days of SatNav where postcodes are now essential! This release is a nice addition to your Royal Mail timeline collection featuring this great British institution.