Miniature steam trains take to the tracks
SCORES of miniature steam engines will be on display in Earl Shilton this month as part of an annual fundraising event.
The Earl Shilton Toy Steam Rally returns for its fifth year on November 12 at the Age UK senior citizens centre on King’s Walk in the town.
A range of model trains, including Mamods, Wilescos and Bing, will be on show from 11pm to 4pm.
Train enthusiasts also have the opportunity to purchase models from suppliers at the event.
A raffle and tombola will be held with nearly 40 top prizes up for grabs, including a stadium tour of Leicester City’s ground.
Entry costs £1 for adults and £50p for children.
All proceeds raised will be donated to Age UK, a charity which supports elderly people.
The event was pioneered by Earl Shilton grandfather Jack Baines, who died in June 2014, aged 73.
His daughter-in-law Lyzette Rowley said: “Five years ago Jack had a crazy idea of putting on a steam rally in Earl Shilton.
He thought it would end up being just a bunch of mates getting together to steam up a few engines, but the hall filled up and it was a massive success.
“Fast forward five years and Jack has sadly passed on, but his legacy lives on and it is thriving. “It is a family affair. “His wife Eunice, son David and myself organise the rally, and on the actual day his daughter Nita along with her partner Mike and Jack’s three grandchildren help make the day run as smooth as possible by working on the different stalls we have up there.
“We also have a number of friends who come and help us on the day too.”
A three-inch scale steam boiler, which was formally owned by Mr Baines, has been refurbished and renamed Blackjack in his memory.
It is set to be unveiled at the rally.
For more information on the event call Lyzette on 07939 592790 or email earlshiltontoysteam@hotmail.com