TERRY SMITH looks at how to build this simple kit with many uses.
The GM423 Fordhampton Bus Shelters kit must be one of the smallest kits in the Gaugemaster Structures range, although it is not short of detail and is more versatile than the title states.
On opening the box, you might be a little surprised just how many pre-coloured and clear parts welcome you, so best to lay them out to identify what is what. As usual I recommend you use a Cutting Mat with the GM664 Sprue Cutter to cut away the parts from the sprues.
Of course, you can paint the frames to suit the area or bus company you are modelling but do this first before you add the clear panels. I also used thinned black paint to pick out the gaps between the paving slabs on the bases and painted details on the push bikes. I did decide to cut away the centre top glass panel above the entrance on one of the shelters, but other than that the kits were built as the instructions.
While the kit is advertised as Bus Shelters, they would equality at home on a modern-day railway platform as they are of a similar style that is now seen on stations all over the country.
Bus shelters are seen everywhere - no layout should be without one!
It might be small, but the box is surprisingly packed with pre-coloured parts.
Get used to the parts and separate the ones used in both shelters.
I stuck the frame uprights to the roof first then added the side panels.
I decided to remove this panel to make assembly a little easier.
As in the previous shot you can see the difference in weathering the slabs.
Paint the bike tyres and handlebars, one here has had the front wheel and saddle stolen.
They build up into a versatile kit that could both be used on and outside a Modern Image station.
These structures are seen on platforms all over the rail network.