In the mid 1970's, I constructed my first proper layout, and it was a scale model of Verwood station in Dorset but which included a loop to allow continuous running.

The baseboard comprised two 8'x 4' sheets of ½" blockboard reinforced with 2"x 1" softwood battens. The boards were constructed separately so that the model could be taken elsewhere. I used Peco Streamline track and bedded it on foam underlay. The point motors were mounted underneath. I used a H&M controller which I already possessed.

The building were made from scratch. I surveyed what still existed and also studied old photographs to produce some scale drawings to work from. I also researched timetables and other documents to establish reasonable train formations and workings. I additionally had the advantage of knowing some people who had worked on the line.

Despite the layout being rather cumbersome, I did exhibit it at a local history show in 1983 resulting in some pictures taken by The Western Gazette. I subsequently took the model to the local junior school as part of their learning about their locality.

The model gradually fell into disrepair but the some of the buildings were salvaged to make a static display in the Heritage Centre.

 
Return to the top of the page.
Return to the Models front page.