Once again, we were kindly invited by the Sutton Coldfield Railway Society to set-up a display of model engineering items at this year's exhibition. This has become a regular event in our calendar, and we always look forward very much to supporting them at this fascinating event.
Our challenge is in presenting an interesting display that tries not to repeat items seen in previous years, whilst at the same time trying to demonstrate the skills and wide range of items that our members create. To be pedantic, model engineering is more than just creating a visual replica of some item from the past, rather it is replicating the engineering processes and skills used in the manufacture, working and operation of the full size version of the original, albeit on a smaller scale. Nor does model engineering have to confine itself to the copying of items from the past or use of traditional methods - modern methods and materials are very much embraced by model engineers, and creativity and inventiveness is encouraged.
So what was new this year? Most visibly was the live-steam demonstration just outside the front entrance where visitors were able to watch Mike with his 3" scale traction engine in operation and making the occasional sortie round the car-park. There was a variety of stationary engines running on steam generated by a coal-fired vertical boiler. Stan ran his Rider-Ericsson Hot-Air engine on Sunday morning. The sound, sight and smell of these seemed to be enjoyed by all (particularly when Mike mischievously stoked-up with some of his smoky bituminous coal!)
On our stand inside the main building, the display centred around two 5" gauge trains, one consisting of a goods train "top and tailed" by a GWR Pannier Tank and an LNER B1 loco. The other train was Eric's GWR Prairie Tank loco coupled up to his MKII coach (how many people I wonder realised that this engine was in fact a battery-electric loco? Even when running on the track, the steam engine sound-effects are totally convincing).
We also had three hot-air engines on display, none of which had previously been displayed. Two of these were seen in operation during the weekend. I think in all the years we have been putting on these club displays, I can only recall ever seeing one other hot-air engine, so this was something special.
As in previous years we had intended to run some of the stationary engines being displayed on the main stand on compressed air. Unfortunately the compressor suffered a catastrophic failure around Saturday lunchtime and we were unable to obtain a replacement at short notice.
The model railway layouts in the main exhibition were as varied and fascinating as ever. You look at them from a distance and see a whole village or landscape which "looks right", you then move in close and marvel at the detail that has gone into everything. Peering through the windows, even the "goings-on" inside the houses, workshops and hotels are authentically represented. They really are amazing.
Below are a selection of photographs taken during the weekend. As usual, I forgot to make a note of the names of the various layouts, but if anyone can update me (or provide some better photographs) I will gladly update the section.
Finally, I would just like to say a big thankyou to all our members who contributed towards making our stand a success again this year.
(An enlargement can be viewed by clicking on each picture)
Page created 3rd May 2007 by Peter Mc