CHAIRMAN of West Wiltshire Model Railway Circle Ron Pybus said he was delighted with the turnout to the group’s first open exhibition in over 20 years on Saturday (March 21).

The Trowbridge club, which was founded in 1967, invited visitors to its new premises in The Old Tannery in Holt, after it moved from its old location at Andil House in Trowbridge last year following a 47-year stay there.

There were at least eight layouts on show at the event, including both OO and N gauges, with the club displaying its 20-feet long, fully digital Canadian layout and an analogue system operated OO layout.

In addition, the exhibition included layouts owned by other club members and those from other clubs, plus a local model rail shop.

Mr Pybus said: “It went really well and we had 168 people through the door, which was double what we expected. Everyone enjoyed it and we probably gained a few new members.

“Our aim was to raise publicity about the fact that we are actually there and make our presence known. The site is up for redevelopment in 18 months, but we are hoping to be able to stay there once the work is finished.

“It was the first time we have exhibited in about 26 years, as it wasn’t really possible, at our previous home, so it was great to see so many people and we are now hoping to do another one in the next 12 months.”

For more information about the club, contact Ron Pybus on 01225 774440 or email Pybus@btinternet.com