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Post event press release for Thorncombe Model Rail Exhibition held on 5th Nov 2011
Thorncombe RailEx 2011 “Climbing to the next level” The annual Thorncombe Model Railway Exhibition organised by Thorncombe Rail Activities Club went ahead on November 5th 2011, and this year being our 11th anniversary it was opened by Steve Flint, Editor of Railway Modeller fame. Steve is well known as a local authority on many things railway related, and has contributed much by way of his excellent photographs to “The Modeller” and other publications. “Thorncombe RailEx” (as it is now known) was the largest event ever, and public attendance exceeded expectations on the day, despite local road closures and the tragic M5 accident near Taunton. From door receipts we estimate that over 400 people journeyed to see us, making this probably our most successful show ever! Prize for longest journey to visit us must go to the couple from Cognac in France, although others from Twickenham, Plymouth, Bognor Regis and Lincoln all featured! Aided by a grand raffle, with many great prizes, the prestigious “Public Favourite exhibit award” – “The Jeff Tennant Memorial Trophy”, and new this year - the “Chairman’s Choice Award”, (with prizes sponsored by Buffers Model Railways), the event had a buzz from the start that continued thereafter. The new enlarged facilities using the school gymnasium and car park next door worked well, and although we had very good numbers, the extra space meant that a more relaxed atmosphere was achieved. Many people also commented that Thorncombe RailEx continues to be one of the friendliest events around, featuring high quality exhibits, good facilities and excellent value. Trade support was again provided by PECO of Beer, “Buffers” of Colston Cross, Rod Saunders of Bradninch, and Aspire Gifts & Models of Buckland Newton. They combined to provide a good balanced selection of model railway products and equipment. A diverse and interesting selection of Railwayana was also on sale courtesy of Alan Corwood, and traders all said it was well worth attending. Finally, the “Jeff Tennent Memorial Trophy” for the public’s favourite exhibit, was again awarded to Ted Olney of Bath for his “Bishopsmead” layout. “Corris 1930” and “Bleadon” layouts were voted into the runner- up spots. Keith Foster was awarded the “Chairman Choice Award” for best detail, atmosphere and presentation with his superb layout “Tank House Sidings”. Once the sums have been finalised, TRAC will once again be able to donate a decent amount to rail related charities. Work is already well underway to make next year’s event as good as this one. Be sure to be there on Saturday November 3rd 2012! Yours truly with Steve Flint of “Railway Modeller”, who kindly agreed to open proceedings. Our thanks to you and the team at Peco for your continued support! |
 Geoff Broadhurst’s hand carved slate work in Rod Allcock’s “CORRIS 1930” drew many plaudits as this lovely composition shows. 1930’s Welsh atmosphere, captured in abundance in this village scene. “Corris” went on to take joint runner-up with “Bleadon”.
Keith Foster’s evocative “Tank House Sidings” has raised the bar for a first time exhibitor, with this gritty midlands diorama – complete with superb sound! This was awarded “The Chairman’s Choice Award”, for detail, presentation and atmosphere. Top quality!
 Ted Olney’s “Bishopsmead” has all the classic ingredients to make it an “ultimate box room layout”, and secured “Public Favourite Award for the 2nd year!
 “Stodmarsh”. All that is missing is “sister Dolly’s upside down pudding” from this shot. (Corporal Jones has probably eaten it). This exhibit came a strong third overall and is fantastically whimsical entertainment!
 Simon Addelsee’s “Polpendra” small but perfectly formed, and an exercise in how to do “N scale” justice. We are all pleased he made it despite the closure of the M5. |
