Model train show on track for charity at Saddleworth Museum

A MODEL train exhibition was certainly on the right track during its two-day visit to Uppermill.

The event at Saddleworth Museum, organised by local model rail enthusiast Chris Nicholls, attracted more than 500 people as well as raising £1,142.85 for Macmillan.

There were six layouts on display by enthusiasts and societies featuring Barrhead Parcels, Bridge Norton, Rowley, Boston and Maine, Leigh Bridge Stabling Point and a Thomas themed DCC layout.

There were also stands for three traders – Sawyer Models, Milnsbridge Models and Towpath Books – along with a raffle to win a Deltic nameplate.

Frank Herbert and Dave Warner show off Barrhead Parcels by Todmorden Independent Modellers

Visitors had the chance to vote for the ‘best in show’ which was awarded to Craig Holt for his layout of Leigh Bridge Stabling Point.

Craig picked out one of his voters at random – young Lewis Tunnicliffe – to receive the ‘best in show’ prize of a Highland rambler train set, donated by Sawyer Models of Leigh.

Craig Holt with his best in show layout and prize, organiser Chris Nicholls, and Andrew Sawyer of Sawyer Models

Organiser Chris said: “Saddleworth and the surrounding areas have a very rich railway history and it is only right that we can have a model rail show again.

“There used to be an event six or seven years ago but we hope this is the start now of something regular again.

“We decided to hold the show not for profit and so all proceeds will be going to Macmillan Cancer Research.”