Model train enthusiasts came from miles around to celebrate their hobby.

The Bridport and District Model Railway Club recently held its annual New Year exhibition at the Public Hall on Fleet Street, Beaminster.

Visitors came from as far as Exeter, Southampton, Yeovil, and Taunton. The public were able to view exhibits which came from Dorchester, Weymouth, and Seaton, as well as the local and club layouts. All popular scales were represented and a wide variety of scenes depicted. These ranged from the industrial harbour-side yard in the east of America, as depicted by Bob Machin’s‘ON 30’ layout, to the beautiful countryside theme of the old Somerset and Dorset line as depicted by Ron Randall’s ‘Shillingsford’ layout.

Everyone's childhood dream was realised in a Hornby Dublo layout by Windy and Andy Miller, which once again proved very popular. The Welsh narrow gauge scene was presented by John Edge with his ‘N’ gauge layout entitled ‘Lane End’ and Douglas Beazer displayed his static display about the British military train to Berlin, which attracted much interest from many members of the public. Peco Model Railways from Seaton attended with their display.

Various dioramas, which had been made for the club competition, were on show and attracted much attention, showing visitors what can produced on a piece of plywood.

Club publicity officer Douglas Beazer says the club was fortunate to have exhibits in Beaminster of such a high quality. "They were quite compatible with the national level of modelling and this was a reflection of the very high standard on show," he said.

There were several trade stands selling new and second hand goods and light refreshments were available to everyone during the day. Mr Beazer said: "The club was extremely grateful for the support of the public, many of whom reflected on the warm, friendly and family atmosphere of the day."

Club exhibition manager, Bob Ahrens, added: "There was something for everyone and we're also pleased with the generous support of the local public and visitors."

The club’s next exhibition will take place in Bridport on Saturday, July 28.