Well, not that wild.  Just a visit to the Gauge O Guild Summer Show.  It was not far away at Kempton Park Racecourse, and although mainly a trade show, there were some layouts to look at as well.  Having bought an online ticket, as it was cheaper, I used the early admission option that came with the ticket.  Soon after getting inside, the fire alarms went off, and we evacuated the building.  I think it might have been due to me removing my wallet from my pocket….  This incident was very well handled; indeed I was struck by the efficiency and friendliness of all involved in the show.  Even down to the young ladies who served me a cup of coffee – perhaps railway enthusiasts are a cut above the usual race-goers?  

So to the layouts on display.  Wordsley Wharf is a West Midlands based shunting layout.   I liked the canal boat and the battered wooden fencing.

Weekend Yard was built over a weekend at a show in 2023, to show what can be done using commercial products.  Perhaps I should take some of my projects to a show – they might get finished?

Weltham Mitey is the arch-typical GWR branch line, but none the worse for that.

I’d seen Frittenden Road at several other shows, but I think that the oast houses and hops are new?

I’ve been following Smithfield on RMWeb, as an expanded Minories.  Some interesting modelling here, with a lot of 3D printing.  The coaches are printed.  A single arch was printed, a mould made, then the others cast in resin.  The station building is based on Denmark Hill, familiar to me as my three children were born in Kings College Hospital (and indeed my mother-in-law passed away there.)  The bomb damage is due to some faulty printing and the next attempt will be better.

I discovered that the layout was being shown by the East Surrey MRC (no relation) based up in Merstham, and I ended up having a long talk with the East Surrey mob – genuine interest both ways as to the two club’s activities.  I then spotted a very old friend (whose sister was in my year in junior school)  who I hadn’t seen since before covid.  It was good to have another long chat and catch up with his news.

Back to the layouts….  Arun Quay is very familiar, but always worth admiring.  I’m sure I’ve taken a picture of the baseboard construction before, but I did it again as it’s worth noting.

Last layout was Wenford Dries.  Again, I’d seen this before.  Very simple, but an interesting idea.

Finally, there were some useful demonstrations and displays, including this lovely GWR tunnel mouth diorama by Stephen Fay.

And just for the record.  I came away with some small purchases – a second hand book, the latest Model Railway Journal, and a Slaters PO wagon kit.  So I am not abandoning N gauge quite yet!