This Saturday was the annual exhibition of the 7mm Narrow Gauge Association in Burton-on-Trent.
There were 14 layouts, 7 traders, 3 societies, 3 demonstrations and the Association’s large stand of modelling goods / publications / secondhand goodies. Plus the food’s great and there’s a bar too!
It is always a really good exhibition. I am amazed that more people don’t go.
Perhaps they need to rebrand it with a fancy new name. Burton Model Fest ??
Here are some snaps of things that caught my eye… (Click on an image for a larger version).
On the O Gauge Guild stand was this work in progress micro layout. It’s gonna be good!I was very impressed with the 3D printed buildings. Queen’s Wharf in O-16.5 by Luke Gosling. The layout is inspired by Tywyn Wharf but, refreshingly, it isn’t a slavish copy.Very nice buildings and stock.My favourite layout, Low Tide by Stuart Marshall in O-16.5.I really enjoyed the simplicity of the track plan, the atmosphere of the layout and the detailing that Stuart has included.Afon Adit by Martin Rich in O-9.Martin has created some super viewpoints on the layoutI like the way the structures and scenery partly obscure the stock, it makes you ‘look into’ the layout.There’s an underground section with a working lift.Bunny Mine & Mill by David Rae in O-14.It represents a gypsum mine adit and has loads of character.St Oswalds by Tim Crockford in O-16.5. Beautiful lighting and subdued colour choices work really well.It proves you don’t need lots of cameos to create a great layout. Lovely stock too.Esgairgeiliog by Paul Holmes in 7mm scale and 16mm gauge.A beautifully modeled version of the Corris. “Can we see the train run mister?”I particularly enjoyed Kevin Harlow’s demonstration of tree construction using a 3D printing pen.The final results are impressive and Kevin was pleased to share his knowledge.On the same stand was this lovely WW1 micro layout.My award for best layout name goes to: Lostanbodge 🙂 by Brian Hempstead and Dennis Abbley.Attractive model of Merddin Emrys.Superb scratch built pullman.Great Garratt locomotive.Combine them with some well modeled scenery and you have a lovely layout.
I enjoyed a leisurely browse of all the layout and a good chat with most of the operators.
It was good to meet up in person with fellow modellers from the online world. Good to see you Andy, Jill, Andrew and Sean!
I learnt loads and came back inspired.
And, yes, I have brought a 3D pen….. watch this space 🙂
Steve's Narrow Gauge Railway Adventure 