The popularity of model railways shows no signs of relenting as hundreds flocked to an exhibition celebrating the hobby in Stowmarket.
Enthusiasts from all over the region attended the event at Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre and were treated to a plethora of different layouts in various scales. Young and old came together to see the latest products that were on offer and some old classics that still hold a large place in the hearts of fanatics. The day marked the annual Stowmarket Railway Club display and the organisation was pleased with the 800-person turnout as it looks to attract more members.
Speaking to EADT24, David Vince, publicity officer for the club, said: “It went very well indeed. We had a good turnout, the numbers were slightly up on last year, which is encouraging. We had a variety of ages attend from children to more senior citizens who remember steam railways.”
The sheer number of people that visited the exhibition showed again the popularity of model railways. While youngsters enjoy seeing the trains move along the track after it has been painstakingly put together, for adults it gives that sense of nostalgia from years gone by. The UK has a long, proud history of dominating the rails ever since the first steam engine graced the tracks.
Today, it is much different as the famous giants of steam are confined to museums and special events to be replaced with high speed electric trains. However, there is still satisfaction for people that recreate a countryside line in the comfort of their own home. Companies like Mamod can take that experience a step further with its line of fully functioning steam engines, which can be purchased as models or in packs to be put together at the collector's leisure.
Mamod has a strong history of handcrafting the very best products and has a strong tradition of only using locally sourced materials which have been put together at its manufacturing plant in Smethwick, West Midlands.