So it missed the extended GB deadline but was ready for Telford.
A twin-engined development of the Vickers Wellesley, the Wellington emerged following an Air Ministry rethink of its maritime reconnaissance requirements in the mid-1930s. The Avro Anson had been ordered in response to a request for tenders issued by the British Air Ministry for a maritime reconnaissance aircraft. The type was placed into service with the Royal Air Force in 1936 and was initially used in the envisioned maritime reconnaissance operation alongside the larger flying boats. The Air Marshalls quickly realised that the Anson's offensive weapon load was paltry; more was needed, and soon.
Meanwhile, Vickers had launched production of its Wellesley bomber. Although a single-engined design, it's bomb load and range were considerably greater than the Anson's, and the Air Ministry saw potential in a 'fast-track' adaptation of the design to better satisfy its land-based maritime reconnaissance needs. Two engines were required; although reliable, the Wellesley's single 925 hp Bristol Pegasus XX wasn't enough in the event of an engine failure over water, so Vickers took the simple expedient of replacing it with two lighter Bristol Mercury engines that each pushed out 920 hp.
Other than the engine mountings, main undercarriage and nose profile, the Wellington was essentially identical to the Wellesley. while speed was increased, range reduced but it was still better than the Anson's and the bomb load still more than three times greater.
Wellingtons entered service in early 1938 and were the mainstay of Coastal Command's land-based maritime reconnaissance force until supplemented by the Hudson. In the European Theatre they were slowly replaced by more capable types as the war progressed but continued to give sterling service over the eastern Mediterranean, the East African coast and Indian Ocean up to the end of 1944. They also served in the search and rescue role over UK territorial waters (dropping inflatable life rafts and other survival gear from the distinctive panniers) right up to the end of 1946.
The model depicts Vickers Wellington I L1336, MW-F of 217 Squadron, based at St Eval during July 1940.



The real L1336 was a Blenheim I (kitted by FROG), while the real MW-F was Anson I K6285.