Events 2008
28th June 2008 - Exhibition
For this years show we had a small increase in the area available and hence were able to show 9 layouts with 3 trade stands.
Once again we had the support of two other local groups (Clacton & Suffolk / North Essex), both groups are still working on their layouts with steady progress from last year.
Our own Felixstowe group was showing a further enlarged modular layout, this year shown as a U shape for the first time with a total of ten modules (two double ones), fiddle yards and end returns. This gave a frontage of approximately 55 feet, with trains covering 110 feet on a circuit. Realising that with our previous operating method there would be wait to see the next train pass, the circuit was split into three sections. After a few teething problems this proved quite successful. The groups hands on layout was also on show along with layouts from three other group members, including two new to the show. These included a very nicely build hexagonal layout by Eddie Flowers, which could be run fully automatically, Ted Cotton had his Orwell layout on show which features a number of local buildings and the now disused Orwell Station on the Felistowe line. Your scribe also had on display Wilvey, (GWR branch) in its smaller 10 feet size.
Also on show were two layouts being developed as part of a competition being run by Ipswich railway Modellers Association (IRMA). The competition has a strict size limit, being only 4 square feet in N gauge, it was interesting to see the different ideas on how to best use this small space.
As ever thanks to Carol and Ray Hansen for bringing along the Society 2nd hand items, Neil from Scograil for his new N gauge items (+layout) and for the first time Mike Symonds (Electronix Connections) for his range of electrical items.
Visitor numbers were again good this year with well over 200 visitors.
Finally the group would like to thank all the exhibitors and traders for there support and of course to all our visitors.
Images of the day;