Frank Harris (1932-2024)

[76043]

I thought this is worth posting here as a news item, copied from the latest Railway Modeller as we all probably owe a debt of gratitude to Romford Models at some point in our modelling journey.

Mark Arscott of Markits Model Railway Products writes:

It is with great sadness that I have to inform you of the passing of Frank Harris (known to many as 'Mr Romford') on 2 May 2024. He passed peacefully in hospital with his son and daughter by his side. He was 92.

Frank started Romford Models in 1971 as a manufacturing sub-contractor for W & H Models Ltd., whose principal Charles Skelton was a close associate of the late Peco founder, Sydney Pritchard. Peco was also a long standing customer of Romford Models.

I shall miss him as he was the last of the true 'time served' mechanical engineers, meticulous in everything he did. A sad loss and a gentleman.

Romford Models continues under the auspices of Markits Model Railway Products.

 

[76043]

Having been brought up in Romford, I always wondered where the factory was, I did finally find it during lockdown.

 

[Joe's Garage]

The legacy continues and another one joins the "Great model railway club in the sky"
Thank you for the wonderful Romford wheels Frank.
By the way that is a great bit of inspiration for a micro layout especially the "bridge"
Julian

 

[Crimson Rambler]

Is there any connexion between Romford Models and the old Romford wheels?

I used them in the '60s for rewheeling one or two Triang chassis and for my earliest couple of scratchbuilt loco. The obituary by @76043 for Frank Harris advises Romford Models started in 1971.


Crimson Rambler

 

[76043]

Very good question, I'm now wondering if that's a typo in the Modeller, could it be 1961 or something else? I've looked at the article again and it definitely says 1971.
Tony

 

[Lancastrian]

"Romford" Model Limited, private limited company, incorporated 2nd May 1946, dissolved 6th September 2022 according to Companies House.