The Royston and District Model Railway Club held their annual exhibition at the Bassingbourn Village College on Saturday 13th April, which as usual was a great success with almost a thousand people attending from across a wide area. It was encouraging to note that around 150 of the younger generation were present at this the 34th such display.
Young Rowan Hammond from Biggleswade, who was visiting with his father, was captivated by the steam engines on the Putnoe Halt display, which was one of the 20 plus layouts of varying gauges exhibited in the Hall. Although the traditional OO remain the most popular choice, smaller gauges such as the several N displays present are gaining ground as they require much less area and can be adapted more readily to modern day room space. There were also present a surprising number of much larger O gauge models.
For those interested in purchasing additional items for their displays, or indeed about to launch into the Liliputin world of modelling for the first time there were plenty of trade stands with eager staff at hand to provide advice and the initial rolling stock. Whilst for the bookworm there were many excellent titles to choose from.
Secretary, Peter Schofield, stated that he was very appreciative to visiting enthusiasts and stallholders for all their hard work and support in helping to make the event the success it was.
“The exhibitors told me how much they enjoyed the day with numerous ones saying how wonderful it was to witness happy young faces,” he stated. “The large number of junior members of the family that attended more than justified our decision to make it a friendly family day by keeping our entrance fee down and allowing children free admission” he concluded. Clubs from as far afield as Tonbridge in Kent participated in the day.
Numerous famous stars from the music world have assisted in making railway modelling popular again. For example, on his return to the UK, Sir Rod Stewart shipped his vast 124 ft long by 23ft wide model replicating a US city which had taken him some 30 years to construct, to his residence here.
Jules Holland, boasts a 100 ft long layout at his Kent home, whilst another ardent modeller completely demolished his house which he rebuilt to accommodate a huge display spread across the entire top floor.
During the recent pandemic model train sales of various gauges went through the roof and created a large number of new fans to railway modelling.
Copyright – Article & photographs – Clive Porter
Photos – If anyone is interested in owning any of the fine photos in this feature, please contact Clive Porter: 07594 259 410
For more details about the Royston & District Model Railway Club visit: www.roystondmrc.co.uk
