The figures

Nothing brings a layout to life like miniature people and, if you’re modelling a slice of a city, no matter how small, you’re going to need a lot of people. Most of the figures have been custom made and painted by Peter Goss to reflect the period. Peter is well known for his layouts ‘Rowlands Castle’ and ‘The World’s End’.

“I have a feeling that he’s done about 500,” Rob says, “and we’ve only another 700 to go!”

What works is how naturally the figures are placed. But there’s no overall masterplan for figure placement.

“If there’s something going on, if there’s a happening, Peter forms the figures around that,” Rob says, “otherwise they’re placed at random. Peter and his friend made several visits to fit the figures onto the layout.”

Les Green adds, “There are loads of little cameos, like the taxi stands. Outside the hotel there’s the flower seller with a little crowd around her.”

Viewers will be able to spot the procession of women with their washing on their heads going to and from the wash house and there’s even formidable Liverpool MP Bessie Braddock attracting a gathering. Some cameos have been informed by conversations at exhibitions, such as finding out about the terrifying game of swinging out over the railway cutting on a rope. One couple told the team that they used to meet under the station clock and they’ve been included too.

“We pick up a lot of things at exhibitions,” says Les. “People tell us things. It’s all really interesting.”