Roadshow Reports

Posted on behalf of Charles Leekham, OOLS Roadshow Manager

To the delight of the large number of model railway enthusiasts who had descended upon the Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes on the weekend of 2nd and 3rd October 2021 the Great Electric Train Show more than delivered upon the most demanding of visitor expectations.

Having braved torrential rain, fuel shortages and almost two years of Covid Pandemic deprivation, resulting in the cancellation of our favourite shows, the visitors were to be treated to a feast of goodies.

Visitors were greeted with around thirty of the most stunning model railways from the Hornby Magazine, past, present and future featuring a plethora of the most stunning scenic layouts imaginable within generously spaced isles throughout the main hall, with the Traders stands dotted around the periphery.

Among the manufacturer stands were examples of products from KR Models, Cavalex Models, Revolution Trains, Rails of Sheffield, Hattons Model Railways and Ellis Clark Trains. Together with the latest samples from Hornby, Bachmann, Accurascale and more, continuing over two floors of galleries with the full length mezzanine balcony offering panoramic views over the whole event.

Within the order of high octane entertainment on display, Pete Waterman's exceptional "OO" gauge West Coast Mainline layout was predominant. This was its only exhibition appearance following its display at Chester Cathedral. Rather than attempt to describe this somewhat complex and mightily impressive 64ftx12ft undertaking: the youtube video of the inaugural "Chester Cathedral Event" is thoroughly recommended viewing which explains all.

Then there was us. The OOLive Steam Club layout occupied a strategic position, spanning the widest range of footfall among the obviously delighted visitors to the event.

To many visiting our very attractive and functional layout, it was a first. Offering that intriguing mix of steam and steam oil olfactory infusion upon the senses mixed with intrigue as the observer attempts to grapple with the physics around the way it all works.

Our display team offered a continuous display of live steam running to a delighted public with a constant queue awaiting their turn on the unique "Driver Experience". Ample demonstration (if ever there was one needed) of the weighty contribution the OOLSC makes toward the overall success of these important modelling and engineering events.

Our operating team for the weekend included Chris Oakes, Nick Beard, Adrian Campbell, George James, Charles Leekam, Nigel Hoskins, Andrew John, Dave Lyons and John Newton with additional grateful thanks to Maurice Rourke for organising our privileged and enthusiastic participation at this remarkable event.

A much deserved round of applause to the organisers for providing the first class (exhibitor) facilities including endless free hot drinks together with a yummy picnic lunch.

Charles Leekam.

Roadshow Manager