Last year’s exhibition was such a success that there was a ready audience for the Thirsk Model Railways Show 2023 with its satisfying variety of layouts, traders and demonstrators.  Rosie Page, the daughter of author and vet James Herriot was there to present the plaque to the 2023 winning layout: The Favourite Layout Award sponsored by the fabulous The Crown & Anchor – we know it well, try the pie! Not to forget Crafts of Thirsk for helping to keep the programmes free of charge.

All profits were donated to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance which we all know is a worthy cause.

So a quick look at two of my my favourite exhibits: Stand No 22: 009 Narrow Gauge – Holbrook Creek created by Phil Ashlee which I found extraordinarily evocative, and in which one could see a clear narrative. Having said that, a narrative was alive and well in all the exhibits, and, like Holbrook Creek, each was supported by attached notes.  What I found extraordinary in each and every one was the detail. In the case of Holbrook Creek – the models, houses, boats, the water…

Holbrook Creek is based loosely on the old brickworks in Holbrook near Ipswich in Suffold, where the creek flows into the River Stour. The barges, as well as transporting bricks, transported hay and straw from East Anglian fields to the horses in London, and of course, manure from the stables on return.

Now to Demonstrator Chris Pulham and her Railway Art which brought me to a screeching stop. I  wanted to learn more. Chris explained how she had built up the colour of the maroon train to make clear the grubbiness residue garnered from the miles it had travelled. She had then added the people, which made the scene alive with movement. I loved it. www.chrispulhamrailwayartist.co.uk

So, a hugely successful day for the Thirsk Model Railway Show, which was bursting at the seams with enthusiasts of all ages having the time of their lives.

More information: here