Ely and District Model Railway Club held its 44th model railway exhibition last weekend - a sign that railway modelling is far from in decline.  

Around 1,000 enthusiasts attended the event which was held in the newest part of Ely College on May 18. 

A total of 15 layouts were displayed at this year's exhibition, with operators answering a number of questions and offering advice to modellers both young and old.

Ely Standard: Around 1,000 enthusiasts attended the event.Around 1,000 enthusiasts attended the event. (Image: Andy Wilkinson)

Seven traders also attended the show to present a wide range of railway and model-related items to purchase. 

The space comprised two large halls and a spacious entrance lobby, offering visitors, model railway exhibitors and traders a number of benefits, including level access throughout. 

Alongside a visitor cafe, a vintage coach shuttle offered train rides to younger families while accepting voluntary donations onboard in aid of Macmillan Nurses.

Ely Standard: The event was held in the newest part of Ely College.The event was held in the newest part of Ely College. (Image: Andy Wilkinson)

The winner of the Malcom Hine Memorial Tankard for best layout as voted by the public was Fordon Hill, exhibited by 14-year-old Oscar Robinson and his dad. 

Runners up included Rails Through Histon and Providence Collery both of whom gained a significant share of votes. 

Founded in the late 1970s, Ely and District Model Railway Club is an informal club concerned with designing and building a wide variety of models and working layouts.

Some members enjoy traditional more mainstream aspects of modelling, whilst others tend to prefer the exotic or offbeat.

Ely Standard: Around 1,000 enthusiasts attended the event.Around 1,000 enthusiasts attended the event. (Image: Andy Wilkinson)

Chairman of Ely and District Model Railway Club, Andy Wilkinson, said: "Our small club worked incredibly hard to make the day a success and judging by the feedback, we succeeded. 

"We had our problems this year, especially with the late withdrawal of several layouts and much valued trader all due to medical issues.

"We missed them all greatly, but wish them good health and very much hope and expect that they’ll be back with us at our 2025 exhibition."

Ely Standard: Ely and District Model Railway Club was founded in the late 1970s. Ely and District Model Railway Club was founded in the late 1970s. (Image: Andy Wilkinson)

He added: "I want to thank everyone who made this exhibition possible, in particular our exhibition managers, dedicated members, partners, friends and all the invited exhibitors and traders who brough to much interest."

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