HornbyPlaytrains 'Flash' The Local Express Remote Controlled Battery Train Set - Kids Toy Train Sets for Ages 3+, Childrens Mini Model Trains, Includes: Playtrain, Railway Tracks, Control

Hornby have put a lot of thought into this set but it could be even better. For the Amazon discounted price I still think it is good value. “Flash” is quite solid and has some moulded detail. The track is ok for the cost. The cardboard station gets you started. Just invest in some rechargeable AA batteries - 4 needed for the loco.A normal OO (or HO) set is too hard to set up for young children on a temporary basis so this is better as a starter set. The main improvement over previous children-friendly options is the remote control. It works well and gives the youngsters something to do rather than just watch Thomas going round and round.I have 2 disappointments.1. Flash just runs too fast. If you want to stop at the supplied station, or reverse into a siding (with extra track pack) it is all a bit frantic.2. The sounds are too quiet. I have set up the track on a couple of picnic tables so they probably amplify the running noise. I can just about hear the horn. The other sounds just add confusing buttons for no value.As a steppingstone to a full OO set it is probably worth it. I do wish they had started with a freight set. There is a lot more play value if you can load and unload wagons. These are available as extras but it then it starts to get expensive for a set that the children will grow out of in 2 or 3 years.At least Hornby have an interesting basis for future development. 4 stars for effort.

Bought this for my 4 year old for Christmas cause he loved playing with his brothers proper older Hornby set. For the price & the fact it’s battery ran it’s reasonable. Lights are good feature. & as are the sounds. My only moan was that considering it’s meant for younger age range thought the track wouldn’t be as fiddly for the train. Perhaps thicker wheels & train which meant when the train came of the track (all be it not very often) it required the input of a adult to place properly back on the tracks. But overall my son loved being able to stop it & press the horn.

It bright and colourful it's a remote control and magnetic great for 5yr olds.nithing fiddley to get frustrated with .And it works

Seemed like a great idea to purchase this item for my 3yr old Son for Christmas. However, a major component from the battery section was missing so it was never going to work. It also seemed rather cheap materials for the price I paid. I'm going to give Hornby one last chance by buying another, but if the next one has a similar problem, I shall be buying from a competitor in future.

Train is fiddly to put on the track. I struggle to get it right never mind the kids. I bought having high expectations because of the band. I was disappointed. The mat Is ridiculously big and cheaps...moves about to easy and knocks train off. The best part about the whole thing is the train and remote control