Bachmann 35-125BSF

British Rail Class 20/3 20311 "Class 20 'Fifty'" Direct Rail Services Blue

Bachmann's Description & Specifications

The Bachmann Branchline Class 20/3 was first released in 2021, and since then we’ve improved this stunning model further by fitting marker lights at the cab ends, meaning that when operated prototypically as pairs nose-to-nose, a full complement of lighting can now be enjoyed at either end of the formation. Forming a pair of models in original DRS Blue livery is No. 20311Class 20 ‘Fifty’’.

  • Bachmann Branchline OO Scale
  • Era 9
  • Pristine DRS Blue livery
  • Running No. 20311
  • Named ‘Class 20 ‘Fifty’’
  • Etched Nameplates Included
  • SOUND FITTED – Fitted with a Zimo MS450P22 DCC Sound Decoder
  • Length 190mm

DETAIL VARIATIONS SPECIFIC TO THIS MODEL

  • GPS Aerial
  • Two-piece Radiator Shutter (one side only)
  • Early Fluted Bogie Equalising Beams
  • Blanked Speedo Drive

Class & Prototype

The BR Class 20 (English Electric Type 1) served British railways from 1957-2025 as one of the most successful diesel designs ever built. With 228 locomotives constructed 1957-1968, these distinctive single-cab "hood units" became famous for their reliable English Electric 8SVT 1,000 hp engines, characteristic nose-to-nose paired operation, and beloved "Chopper" exhaust sound. They worked cross-London freights, Yorkshire coal trains, MGR operations, and modern nuclear flask services. Outstanding models available from Bachmann (OO), Graham Farish (N), and Heljan (O) in liveries from BR Green through DRS Blue.

No prototype found.

Operator & Livery

Direct Rail Services (DRS) is Britain's premier nuclear transport and commercial rail freight operator, established in 1995 by British Nuclear Fuels Limited to handle the safe movement of nuclear materials. Now owned by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority through Nuclear Transport Solutions, DRS has evolved into one of the UK's leading freight companies whilst maintaining its core nuclear transport mission.

Operating from major depots at Carlisle Kingmoor, Crewe Gresty Bridge, and Motherwell, DRS runs a modern fleet including cutting-edge Class 68 diesels and revolutionary Class 88 bi-mode locomotives alongside heritage Class 37s and specialist Class 20/3s. The company's distinctive blue and grey livery has become synonymous with operational excellence and technical innovation.

DRS's commercial success centres on its partnership with Tesco, operating ten dedicated rail routes carrying over 12,000 containers monthly, whilst infrastructure support services include rail head treatment, snow clearance, and rescue locomotive provision. The company's commitment to environmental leadership delivers 76% fewer CO2 emissions compared to road transport, with Class 88 locomotives achieving additional efficiency gains through dual-mode electric/diesel operation.

Key Facts:

  • Founded: 1995 (30 years of operation)
  • Owner: Nuclear Decommissioning Authority via Nuclear Transport Solutions
  • Headquarters: Carlisle Kingmoor Depot
  • Fleet: Class 20/3, 37, 66/4, 68, 88 locomotives
  • Specialty: Nuclear transport, intermodal freight, infrastructure support
  • Major Contract: Tesco (12,000+ containers/month across 10 routes)
  • Environmental Impact: 76% CO2 reduction vs road transport