Model Rail Summer 2021

Welcome, indeed, to this summer edition of Model Rail. As I write this, the sun is shining and my makeshift modelling space is warming up nicely. With the schools due to break up as we go to press, will the weather take its usual turn for the worse, I wonder? If it does, at least we have our favourite hobby to amuse us on rainy days. I’ve only managed a small amount of practical modelling this month, but I’m particularly pleased with the bridge I’m creating for ‘Lisburn Lane’ (see page 16). This is a project that is being undertaken in snatched moments between my desk-based editorial duties, so a bit of tangible progress feels especially rewarding – something I’m sure many readers can relate to. The painting stage will commence shortly…

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What’s billed as THE show for the railway modeller, The International N Gauge Show is due to take place on Saturday and Sunday September 11-12 2021 at Warwickshire Event Centre. This major event is dedicated to all things ‘N’ gauge with over 25 layouts on display, featuring modern image, steam, continental and American themes, along with society displays and demonstrations. Nearly 40 specialist suppliers are expected to be present, showcasing all the latest models and products, so it’ll be the perfect opportunity for stocking up on all the models and materials you may need. The organisers, Meridienne Exhibitions, will continue to monitor and act on advice from the Government and respond accordingly to guidance, to ensure the event can safely be delivered with compliance to any Covid-19 requirements that may be in…

RATCHET CLAMPS Last month, while building an ‘O’ gauge laser-cut signal box kit, I had need for a few small, lightweight ratchet clamps which could exert a compressing force without damaging the materials. While I already had a couple, I soon realised that you can never have too many, so I invested in a few more. Weighing just 70g each, these clamps can accommodate objects up to 4in (104mm) long and feature cushioned jaws. They’re perfect for a whole range of modelmaking and craft tasks. Price: £2.50 each Availability: Scale Model Shop Tel: 01422 405040 Web: www.scalemodelshop.co.uk DIO DRYBRUSH PAINT Also featured briefly in last month’s issue, these special Drybrush paints from AMMO have been undergoing further testing in my workshop. Boasting a thick, highly opaque acrylic paint formula, a whole range of colours is available, including various…

(ALL SUBJECT TO GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE ON COVID-19) August 14 BEXHILL-ON-SEA. Bexhill MRC MRE. St Richards Catholic College, Ashdown Road, Bexhill-on-Sea TN40 1SE. Time: 1000-1700. Admission: Adult £5, Child £2, Family £12. August 15 FARNHAM. Farnham and District MRC OO9 Open Day. Wrecclesham Community Centre, Greenfields Road, Farnham, Surrey GU9 8TJ. Time: 10001600. Admission: Adult £3. Web: www.farnhammrc.org.uk August 26 WELLING, KENT. The Association of Bexley Charities ‘78 Model Train and Toy Fair. The Falconwood Community Centre, The Green, Welling, Kent DA16 2PG. Time: 1730-2130. Admission: Adult £1.50. Tel: 020 8310 5018. Email: mail@johnsalt.plus.com September 4 TADWORTH, SURREY. North Downs MRC MRE. The Good Shepherd Church Hall, Station Approach Road, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 5AE. Time: 1000-1700. Admission: Adult £6, Child £3, Concessions £5. Tel: 07758 458827. Web: www.ndmrc.info/home/tadworth.htm September 11 STOCKPORT, CHESHIRE. Romiley Methodist Church, Stockport Road, Romiley, Stockport, Cheshire SK6…

I took a couple of weeks of leave in early July, meaning that progress on ‘Lisburn Lane’ has been modest this month. Indeed, I made a point of taking a break from model railways completely and indulged some of my other hobbies instead. I’m glad that I did, as I’m now itching to get on with this project. Since returning, several evenings have been spent building the main overbridge that will stand beside the station. I’d initially thought I’d be able to re-use the salvaged remains of the bridge from the earlier version of this layout. After consideration though, I opted for an all-new structure, which is taller, deeper and longer than my first attempt. I’ve also decided to add a second arch on the ‘landward’ side, which will allow a…