Gainsborough: Full steam ahead at model railway open day

“If anyone hasn’t visited us before, they’ll almost certainly find a model railway far larger than anything they’ve seen before,” said society chairman Chris Wragg.

“Representing the line from London King’s Cross to Leeds in the days of steam and the early days of diesels, our railway has half-a-mile of track and takes ten signalmen to operate it.”

The society’s collection features 190 locomotives and more than 400 carriages and wagons. And for those who can’t escape from shopping entirely, it’s only a short walk from the town centre, Marshall’s Yard.

“Even those who have been before will normally find something new since their last visit,” continued Chris.

“Although we build most of our own locomotives and stock, and I currently have a new loco and several wagons under way on my workbench at home, the standard and price of ready-to-run equipment being produced is such that it is difficult to resist.”

“I’ve recently made a new purchase and there will be a new mystery loco running at the open day, which none of the other members have yet seen, or know what it is.”

As well as the new editions, all of the old favourites will be running including Flying Scotsman, and 12 examples of the A4 class, of which the most famous, Mallard, has been celebrating the 75th anniversary of its record-breaking run this year.

“If anyone finds what they see is to their liking, we’re always keen to welcome new members, from the age of 14 upwards,” added Chris.

“Anyone interested should speak to a steward at the open day, contact our secretary Mick Clapham on 01427 615871, or come down on a club night any Monday or Thursday evening from 7.30pm.”

The open day is on Sunday 8th December from 1.30pm to 6pm at the clubrooms in Florence Terrace, Gainsborough.

Admission is £4 for adults and £3 for children and senior citizens. A family ticket is £10.