Hornby TT:120 Virgin Trains Class 43 HST Train Pack – Speed, Style, and 1990s Flair

Capture the spirit of late 1990s British high-speed travel with the Hornby TT:120 Virgin Trains Class 43 HST Train Pack—a newly tooled release that brings the bold branding and streamlined performance of Virgin's iconic InterCity 125 to life in 1:120 scale.

This train pack features a pair of Class 43 power cars:

• 43093 ‘Lady in Red’ (powered)

• 43097 (unpowered)

Both are finished in Virgin’s distinctive red, black, and white livery, meticulously reproduced with accurate detailing and authentic branding.

Features:

• 5-pole skew wound motor in 43093 for smooth and powerful running.

• Directional lighting for added realism while in motion.

• Interior lighting that brings passenger compartments to life—ideal for station scenes or night running.

• 18-pin DCC Ready socket, allowing for easy digital upgrades.

• NEM tension lock couplings, ensuring seamless compatibility with rolling stock.

Pair this set with Hornby’s TT:120 Virgin HST Mk3 coaches to create a true-to-life high-speed consist straight from the 1990s railway scene.

The Story Behind the Livery

Following the privatisation of British Rail, Virgin Trains began operations in 1997, securing both the InterCity West Coast and CrossCountry franchises. The company inherited a fleet of InterCity 125 (HST) sets, which were repainted into Virgin’s bold corporate colours.

Power car 43093, once named York Festival 88, was renamed ‘Lady in Red’ in 1997—a nod to both its striking appearance and Virgin's branding. This name remained in use until 2003. Meanwhile, 43097, previously named The Light Infantry, entered Virgin service unnamed but equally resplendent in the vivid red livery.

Both locomotives later transitioned to the First Great Western fleet, but during their time with Virgin, they represented the cutting edge of post-privatisation high-speed travel in the UK.

With sleek design, vibrant colours, and legendary performance, the Hornby TT:120 Virgin Class 43 HST is a must-have for modellers and collectors looking to recreate the dynamic energy of the late 20th-century British rail network.