Burton 2023

With 7mm scale narrow gauge modelling being my preferred scale and gauge combination, the chance to see some of the best 7mm narrow gauge layouts and specialist traders under one roof just over the hill in Burton makes the 7mm Narrow Gauge Association’s AGM and exhibition the number one event on my modelling calendar. 

There were a few chances to escape from operating ‘Elsbridge’ for a look around and here are a few of the models that caught my eye, albeit not an exhaustive list. The quality of modelling on display was excellent and with a few pounds spent with the traders, it was a superb day. 

Us modellers do like a quirky play on words when naming our layouts and the one next to us was no exception. ‘Chuffineque’ looked a fun layout to operate depicting a French scene which made a nice change to the more usual British and American ones. They had some interesting Magic Train conversions (another liking of mine) and some attractive looking end balcony carriages which I think I heard were home designed 3D printed. 

Just round the corner was Chris Featherstone’s superb slice of mid-Wales modelling, ‘Melinau’r Abaty’. A favourite of mine with its Corris and Talyllyn inspiration with the mineral extension making for interesting operation. 

‘Books Bridge Tramway’ was a layout I was eager to see after it appeared in the Association magazine Narrow Lines with its unusual electric tram cars, not something you see very often. This didn’t disappoint with reliable operation and fantastic modelling. A suitably muted palette making for a stunning model. 

One feature of childhood issues of Railway Modeller magazine was reading about Peter Booth’s impressive scratch building of 8mm scale NWNGR locos and ‘Dinas’ gave another chance to see them in the light of day. Scratchbuilding of the highest order.

The smallest layout on display was ‘Mousehole’ which Jürgen had brought over from Germany for the show. The second time he has brought a small shunting puzzle layout over, the sounds of the sea helped set the stage and the weathering of his locos and rolling stock was second to none. 

Last but not least was ‘St Petrock Quay’. Have seen parts of this layout before at Burton and in Narrow Lines. More fantastic modelling on display including fancy mixed gauge track, working wagon hoists, cranes and derricks made for a veritable feast of toys. 

A great showcase for the best of 7mm narrow gauge modelling, I came away suitably inspired.