Oxford Diecast Fred Dibnah Aveling & Porter Road Roller & L.Wagon Model

Oxford Diecast Fred Dibnah Aveling & Porter Steam Roller & Living Wagon Set

A superb tribute to one of Britain’s most recognisable steeplejacks, this magnificent two-piece set celebrates the life and machinery of Fred Dibnah, faithfully recreating the iconic steam roller and living wagon that became synonymous with his name.

The first part of the set features Fred’s Aveling & Porter Steam Roller, complete with authentic signage highlighting his famous trade as a Lancashire steeplejack. Fred became renowned for his traditional approach to chimney demolition, preferring time-honoured techniques over modern methods, and his larger-than-life personality later made his television series a firm favourite with viewers across the country.

Finished in Fred’s distinctive bright green livery, the steam roller features a black roof, clay-brown roof underside, and striking red detailing throughout the bodywork. His familiar signwriting, “Fred Dibnah Steeplejack Bolton 30303”, appears along the roof edge in a classic drop-shadow style. As expected from Oxford Diecast’s vintage machinery range, the attention to detail is outstanding, with carefully applied gold, silver, black, white, yellow, and red finishes bringing the cables, chains, struts, chimney, belts, and boiler fittings to life.

Registered DM3079, the model proudly displays the Aveling & Porter crest on the front of the black boiler. The roller and wheel outers feature an olive-grey finish, contrasting with the matt black inner surfaces. Fred famously named his machine ‘Betsy’, and her name is beautifully reproduced in gold lettering on black panels on both sides, positioned behind the tall black and gold chimney stack.

Completing the set is Fred’s 76APR004B Living Wagon, the mobile cabin he kept outside his home in Bolton. Finished to match the steam roller in the same bright green colour scheme with black roof and red detailing, the wagon is registered DM3709 and includes an accurately reproduced front tow hook, allowing it to be coupled behind the road roller.

Additional features include the pale brown five-rung ladder secured to the rear, ready to be removed and placed against the cabin door, along with windows on three sides and bold gold signwriting promoting “Fred Dibnah & Sons, Steeplejack” with the Bolton telephone number 531303.

Combining historical accuracy, exceptional detailing, and a wonderful piece of British industrial heritage, this set is a fitting tribute to Fred Dibnah and the machinery that helped make him a national icon.

Oxford Diecast Product Number: 76APR004