East India Rly locomotive models sold for 26,450 pounds

A fine and detailed late 19th century 6 inch gauge display model of the East India Railway 2-2-2 well tank locomotive 'Express' commissioned for the East India Railway boardroom in London fetched 17,250 pounds.

The prototype was built in 1855 by Kitson, Thompson and Hewitson as a sister engine to 'Fairy Queen'. The locomotive was withdrawn in 1909 for preservation at the Gymkhana, Jamalpur Loco Works. The firebox was damaged so it was not restored to working order. Fairy Queen was restored and now hauls tourist trains in India on a regular basis.

A 6-inch gauge display model of the East India Railway class L1 4-6-0 locomotive of 1900, also commissioned for the East India Railway boardroom in London, went under the hammer for 9,200 pounds.

The identity of the buyers was not known though the auction house said the saleroom at the Bonhams annual sale of Veteran Motor Cars, Steam and other Related Automobilia was packed. "Bidders in the room and on the telephone fiercely competed for the 11 veteran cars in the sale that raised a total of over 1 million pounds with 90 per cent sold by lot, including automobilia and artwork," it said.

The highlight of the sale was a 1903, 10/12 hp rear-entrance Veteran Sunbeam, one of the earliest vintage cars created by the British company, that sold for almost double its presale estimates. The car, with an estimate of 160,000-180,000 pounds fetched 321,600 pounds.

James Knight, International Managing Director of Collectors Cars said, "Once again, the magic appeal of the London to Brighton run has a secured a record breaking sale at Bonhams." Robert Brooks, Chairman of Bonhams comments, "We are very proud of the Veteran motoring team here at Bonhams, particularly as this is our first year as joint title sponsor of the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run with Tindle Group Newspapers".