The Spooky Van is being locked n’ loaded, which can mean only one thing – that ECT’s Spooky People (aka the research team) are hitting the road. We can’t tell you who, where, why, what or how. But suffice to say they’ve packed everything they need for an in-depth fact-finding trip that'll set the ball rolling on a future generation of models. They haven’t yet learned to travel light...

Of course, every top-secret operation needs a cigar-chomping general barking the shots; ours is a hard-as-nails taskmaster who stands for no nonsense and keeps the Spooks in line. But we couldn’t do it without him!

"Let's kick the tires and light the fires, Big Daddy!"

On the subject of Spooky People, our CAD designer Nikki has been creating some breathtaking cameos for one of her own layouts (yes, she has four…). She’s kept this one a bit quiet, but we thought it way too impressive to stay out of the spotlight. We’ll let the scenes speak for themselves; they’re a great example of how far you can go with detail in large-scale modelling (this is 1/24) as well as how talented our team are when they’re ‘off the clock’.

Through the keyhole: Who lives in a house like this?

They also showcase how industrial settings – workshops and warehouses – can make truly fascinating models, with lots to look at even in the quiet moments between trains. Now just imagine an industrial scene of your own, with one of our Pugs simmering gently away outside…

Away from spookiness, Neil’s been indulging in custom weathering jobs on some of our O Gauge pre-owned models. We’re usually flush with short-wheelbase locos, and these are a great way to get yourself started in O. This pair will be available to purchase this week and are the perfect opportunity to own something bespoke, with Neil’s customary flair – and yes, footplate crews were known to stash pedal power in the most unlikely of places!

Look out for more ‘specials’ over the coming weeks – including us at The London Festival of Railway Modelling this weekend (21/22 March). We're already sorting through hundreds of OO/HO show-only locomotives, coaches and wagons, ready to be loaded onto a monster truck come Friday morning. Ally Pally's a great venue and a great show, easily accessible by public transport and with the benefit of a fantastic view over the 'Smoke' when you fancy a breather. We'll look forward to seeing you there.

And if, on your travels, you happen to spot the Spooky Van – remember that on the motorway, no one will hear you scream…