Ore Hopper

As mentioned previously, there is one more structure I want to build before getting on with the layout. This is because for layouts, I prefer to plan full size with stock and a few buildings to see what looks right in the space I’ve got. I envy those who can produce wonderful scale drawings and sketches but that isn’t me. 

It does mean that I will have a selection of buildings that might or might not fit, but what doesn’t fit can always be held over for another project. 

This structure is the tallest one I will have, and is why I’m building it now and whilst started some time back, very little work was done when I diverted my attention to ‘Wheal Ponder’ and is a Kitwood Hill Models Ore Hopper. The thought of having a working hopper to load wagons appeals to me and was one of the attractions of the model.

I’ve been staining the model with Weathered Wood staining from EDM Models as I go and gradually been building it up over recent weeks. It has got to the stage where I could see how it looks against my O gauge stock as the kit is intended for On30 narrow gauge use, I’m pleased to say that it suits the wagons of the Melyn Quarry Company perfectly. 

Underneath there is even space for a second siding, which might help in my space starved plans as it gets the hopper and adjacent siding within a 200mm depth of baseboard. The space underneath is big enough for both my Ruston 48DS and also a Minerva Gunpowder van to pass through. 

Shall get this about 80% completed then get on with the layout. The finishing touches for the pre hopper will be done when it is finally fixed to the layout. 

Current thinking is that a granite quarry was expanded post Great War to produce stone chippings for railway ballast and road use. Rather than extend the railway, the finished stone is transferred to a siding alongside the MVR, not sure whether it will be via narrow gauge railway or aerial rope way at the moment. There will be a tarmacadam works alongside to give a reason for the bitumen tank wagon to run and could be a nice little home for the Ruston.