This week's 'Oakham in history' feature will focus on a rather every-day item in Oakham that many may not have even noticed before: the Oakham level crossing signal box.

Built in 1899 according to the Midland Railway design 2b, Oakham's signal box is not only a recognisable local landmark, but was the prototype for signal box Airfix plastic model kit, making it famous nationally among railway and Airfix model enthusiasts

It is a Grade II listed signal box based in the heart of Oakham on the west side of the tracks on the level crossing - a level crossing which, for two weeks, has been causing delays for drivers in and around Oakham as trains pass through, diverted following damages incurred to Fosters Bridge in Ketton.

Read more about this here.

The Rutland-based signal box achieved fame as the prototype for the Airfix plastic kit, now made by Dapol, and should you want to make it, the catalogue number is C006.

For your ease, you can find the model here for just over £10.

Image courtesy of Airfix.

View our History feature from the 6th of November here.

Do you have any local history to share?

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