AROUND 300 people visited Willand Village Hall on Saturday, September 16, to enjoy The Culm Valley Model Railway Club’s annual Model Railway Show.

Ever popular was Soldor, the Club's layout featuring Thomas and his friends that children of all ages can drive, receiving a certificate at the end.

There were 16 layouts on show with exhibitors travelling to attend from as far as Cardiff and Poole to show their modelling skills.

The layouts ranged from a Norwegian scene through trams, Welsh narrow gauge, Victorian era and steam up to modern image railways.

Visitors were able to vote for their favourite, which this year was won by one set on Dartmoor in the snow.

The Tiverton Model Engineering Society were also present with a stand displaying larger locomotives that they had constructed themselves.  The stalls selling second hand models and railway books did a roaring trade.

One of the event organisers, Peter Fosberry, said: "Our ‘Station Buffet’ was very busy as usual with bacon baps, tea and coffee etc on sale.

"A couple told one of our volunteer ladies, whilst purchasing more cake, that for the last 10 years they have always booked their holiday to Cornwall to coincide with a visit to our show, which is a nice testament to the hard work put in by club members who strive to make sure everyone enjoys themselves.

"Now to start preparing for next year's show on Saturday, September 21, 2024, running from 10am until 4pm. Please put the date in your diary.

"If you wish to see more model railways we have our 30ft layout of Tiverton Junction, as it was in the early 1960’s, on display in our clubroom at The Old Well Garden Centre near Junction 27 of the M5 (EX15 3ES).

"It is open to the public, at no charge, on the second and fourth Sunday of each month from 10am until 4pm.

"In addition there will always be a guest layout which changes several times a year and Soldor, allowing children to drive the little blue engine and his friends, which as you can imagine is very popular.

"Make a day of it by visiting us and then popping into the garden centre for a look around and some refreshments."

For further information about the show or the club visit the webpage: www.cvmrc.co.uk .