IT was full steam ahead at the West Wilts Gauge 0 Group's annual model railway show as hundreds flocked to the Westbury exhibition last Saturday.

The 17th edition of the popular event proved to be a big success once again as nearly 300 people piled into Paragon Hall, Haynes Road, to gaze upon the 10 model railway layouts.

Guests were treated to demonstrations including an interactive one that children could control, talks about modelling and building techniques and a raffle too.

The group's chairman, John Cruse, said: "We were really happy with how it went and it was lovely to see such a mix of ages, both model railway enthusiasts and families too.

"Everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves and some travelled quite a way. We had someone from Reading, another from outside the county and one man was from America, although he did not actually travel over just for the event.

"I think the popularity of these types of events are slowly growing and that is reflected in how many are turning up and getting involved.

"Many of the different models really impressed a lot of people, and the children really enjoyed controlling one of the model layouts. Overall it really could not have gone much better."

Amidst all the demonstrations, activities and refreshments, club member Rod Towler received an order of merit from the international Gauge O Guild plaque for his service to helping model railway events.

"Bless Rod, he has organised this for all but one of these model railway shows and he has put on many others in the county so he truly deserves this award," added Mr Cruse.

"As you can imagine he was chuffed to bits and quite honoured to receive this. He has been a wonderful ambassador for events like these and he should be given huge credit for all that he has done."

After a month or so break, the group's attentions will then turn towards next year's event.

"We will be thinking about how to build on what is good about the event and hopefully come back even better next year," said Mr Cruse.