Lego Royal Yacht Britannia goes on show in Edinburgh

A SCOTS fisherman has launched a giant 11-foot replica of the Royal Yacht Britannia - made from Lego.
Henry Hussain, 8, has a close look at the lego model. Picture: Neil HannaHenry Hussain, 8, has a close look at the lego model. Picture: Neil Hanna
Henry Hussain, 8, has a close look at the lego model. Picture: Neil Hanna

The impressive model was created using 40,000 bricks and will go on public display at the attraction’s visitor centre today.

It took Jim McDonough five weeks to construct the Queen’s former ship on his dining table in Arbroath, Angus.

LEGO model builder Jim McDonough puts the finishing touches to his model. Picture: Neil HannaLEGO model builder Jim McDonough puts the finishing touches to his model. Picture: Neil Hanna
LEGO model builder Jim McDonough puts the finishing touches to his model. Picture: Neil Hanna
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No glue was used in his creation, meaning everything can be taken apart.

The 1:37 scale model is just one of many the 51-year-old has built, but he admitted he was proud that his first professional commission was famous ship.

His model, which is now on show in Edinburgh, includes an onboard Phantom Rolls-Royce in its garage and a white baby grand piano in the Royal Deck Tea Room.

Picture: Neil HannaPicture: Neil Hanna
Picture: Neil Hanna

He said: “It was an honour to be asked to build the Royal Yacht Britannia, and it’s one of the most exciting projects I’ve ever undertaken and, being able to refer to the original plans, kindly supplied by Britannia, allowed me to produce a perfect replica of Her Majesty’s famous ship.”

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Britannia’s chief executive, Bob Downie said: “We are thrilled with our Lego Britannia.

“Jim has produced an outstanding replica model of the ship which will be on display during The Queen’s 90th birthday year and this unique piece is sure to be a highlight for Lego fans, young and old.”

Picture: Neil HannaPicture: Neil Hanna
Picture: Neil Hanna

The Royal Yacht Britannia was used by the Queen and her family for more than 40 years.

And the Britannia has held the accolade of Scotland’s Best Visitor Attraction for 10 years in a row.

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The model was built as part of VisitScotland’s year of innovation, architecture and design, with visitors able to view Jim’s creation from tomorrow.