Model event’s the flower of Scotland

It’s nearly time for one of the show highlights of the year, with the Model Rail Scotland event set to delight the crowds in Glasgow from February 25-27.

And to celebrate the return of the event after its enforced absence, there’s even going to be the launch of a special model in N gauge. The show later this month will see more than 40 layouts at the SEC Centre, in the heart of the city, with a wide range of gauges and displays including N, P4, table top, OO gauge and O... and there will be something to pique everyone’s interest, whatever their railway passion. There will also be a host of traders keen to help you transform your own layout and take it to the next level, or even just provide that background information or friendly piece of advice.

The model launch is very appropriate. At Glasgow Central station in February 1997 SPT Class 320 306 was named Model Rail Scotland. It was the first time an item of British main line rolling stock had been named after a model rail exhibition and launched the introduction of the new Strathclyde Passenger Transport Carmine & Cream livery.

Model Rail Scotland retained its nameplate until, like all the other named 320s, it was denamed as part of the fleet refurbishment programme.

Now to acknowledge this part of the show’s history, organisers at AMRSS have teamed up with Revolution Trains to bring 320 306 Model Rail Scotland back to life in its SPT Carmine & Cream livery... albeit in reduced form as a limited edition model in N gauge.

This specially commissioned version will be released at the show. Details on how to obtain the model can be found on the show website.

A popular feature of the exhibition has been the vintage bus service by Angus Transport Group using its ex Glasgow Corporation AEC Regent, and 2022 will be no exception as once again a circular route around the city centre serving Glasgow Central, Queen Street and the SEC will be run. It’s all adding up to a great event, and if you’re planning on going, look out for the businesses featured on these pages... and enjoy the show.

At time of writing Covid rules are changing at different rates in different areas of the UK, so check all local regulations at the time of the event. Advance tickets are available which allow entry to the show 30 minutes earlier than normal opening times. Normal show opening times are Friday and Saturday 10am to 6pm, Sunday 10.30am to 5pm. Advanced tickets are available by post or via the Model Rail Scotland website.

Please visit www.modelrail-scotland.co.uk for details.