Amberley Museum's Miniature and Model Show 2007

Chris · Amberley Museum's Miniature and Model Show 2007

Hello All,

Well I went to the show at Amberley on Saturday and had a great day out. it was my first time meeting members from the forum, and a great bunch of people they are!

I will let MTA write the essay later!

It was great to meet some of the members of the forum. It was also great to see some engines running that I hadn't seen before.

Highlights were seeing a mamodfan twin running...

Seeing some Wilescos running (very smooth)...

And of course seeing a Jensen...

The real highlights are of course the people of this forum...

Lots more photos can be found here...

http://s177.photobucket.com/album...andpeg/Amberley%202007/?start=all

A big thanks to MTA for inviting us along, and for organising it all.

If anyone wants any of the photos full size then please let me know.

MTA

Thanks for posting those Chris. Why is it always me that has to write the essay?

I know you are a keen photographer, so you missed out on some great night time photography when we ran 'Steam by Starlight'. I'm sure I mentioned it at least 5 times

I only took the one pic of Polar Bear (or 'The Bear' as she is affectionately known) in Cragside seeing as I was fireman.

All of my pics and one long video hopefully will be on tomorrow eve. Oh, and the essay of course!

James

who went??

steamyjim

I driven that Burrel

He does one of my clubs ralys with it

MTA

James

Who's is the Jensen??

MTA

steamyjim

Is Polar Bear the other loco from that railway in Scotland? The other ones Sea Lion?

Chris

The Jensen is Paul's.

Unfortunately I didn't get to meet Steve or Ian, but I am sure there will be another time.

Paul's daughter, Jordan, was also there. She certainly deserves a mention. Hope my daughter grows up to be as enthusiastic about steam toys as that young lady. Also it was just really funny to see her teddies going for a cruise in a Mamod car.

SillyBilly

Loving the stuff guys, some real arty shots of the twin Chris.

andysleigh

a few pics i took

^^^^^^ drove on sunday

[IMG]http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l63/andysleigh/100_1914.jpg[/IMG

Cranko

Great time , I wish something like that could happen in Kiwi land

SillyBilly

Strangely there is in January! I'll post the details now.

Minor1PJG

I had a thoroughly enjoyable time meeting up again with Simon and Andy and Andy's Dad Mike and to meet Chris for the first time. I really do enjoy running and exhibiting my engines. I was sorry I could only be there for the one day.

Thanks for the kind words about my daughter. At the moment she is really enjoying model steam, especially when she can include her 'Steam Bears'. Those of you who are observant will notice that the two bears were bought at Kew Bridge Steam Museum (Model Steam Weekend) and Kempton Pumping Station (Mamod Spectacular). Jordan particularly recommends the hotdogs at Kew!!

See you all again soon I hope.

Kew Bridge is coming up in a couple of weeks

Wallace

Great pics guys

That was great to see, and captured the event nicely. I've never been to any steam rally, but out of all the ones I have seen here, that looks to be the best in regard to variation.

Well done

Cranko

Hi are you able to identify any forum members in the pics please, its always good to put a face to a name

Graham-Jilly

Great pictures of a great weekend
thanks for sharing them guys

johnreid

Mamodman123

Great show guys!

MTA

More pics! Oh, and the report!

Friday
Having got back from college at just after 5, it was full steam ahead (pun not intended) in getting everything into the car. Oh, and making sure that everything I needed to take was present! Soon it was time to join the traffic that builds up around Arundel at that particular time... Everything was unloaded outside the Hove Ticket Office, a video was also taken but my camera decided to shut itself down! I was told of the grand master plan which was to take place the following morning, so it was all kept quiet so the person it was aimed at would have no idea

At 10pm, I loaded 5 tables onto the flatbed truck, and pulled them over to Hove. I unloaded the tables and brought the truck back. I jacknifed it though on the return journey when it hit the fence post of the crossing at Brockham! After helping Ian with his G Scale layout it was time to retire to a sleeping bag and pillow on the floor of Hove at 11pm.

Saturday
After a sleepless night, I eventually awoke at 5:45. The reason for sleeplessness being three bloody tawny owls hooting constantly for two hours and a pheasant being attacked by a member of what is believed to be a family of foxes on site. Plus I didn't have much to drink

So, the grand master plan was soon innitiated. Some kind soul had donated a horn off of a Bala Lake cruiser, so naturally it had to play a part in the legendary Amberley Rail Group pranks

I checked it had not been tampered with, and sure enough it had been stuffed with a rag to soften the noise! I of course had to take the rag out so it could achieve its full potential. I soon woke Dick up, who had come up with the plan. We rigged it up to an air line, and opened the valve. Needless to say the portakabin which the horn was under vibrated a fair bit and many of the exhibitors nearby were soon after some certain persons blood

After setting up my engines, I departed for breakfast in the restaurant. I received a call from Paul soon afterwards announcing his approaching arrival, I didn't receive his previous message owing to the fact the signal passes right over the chalk pit (

). Soon he arrived along with his daughter Jordan, and I was given a lift down the other end of the site in his beast of a vehicle

Naturally I helped him unload, and we were soon ready to receive the public. Although Paul asked 'Where's Mike and Andy?'. I hadn't received a call from them so I was rather worried that they might not make it

Although upon returning to the building Mike had suddenly appeared! I cannot recall the time between Mike's arrival and Chris's, so I shall just move on to the phone call I received later on. Without realising, my phone had gone off yet again, upon opening my phone I found I had a text from Chris! With the simple statement: "We are here! Chris" So I received a call from Chris and having directed him to the entrance which he, his wife and baby could get in for free we all shook hands and I instantly knew another friendship had been forged. Wendy had just pulled in with her train, so we soon stepped up onto the Lydd Coach and we were off to Brockham. Upon entering Hove, more introductions were made. Although what goodies had Chris bought with him? A box of some description, but what layed inside?

A Luton Bowman, in a suitable workworn condition that obviously Chris likes as many a comment was made by him on the fact that overpolished engines tend to sit on shelves. They don't get run, but us exhibitors all have engines that run, although one of us has a Railway Set with an engine that won't be run. I wonder who that might be? (

) Soon a plethora of engines were steamed up, and many a picture was taken by Chris which can be viewed in the links in this topic. Seeing as Chris had his wife and baby in tow, he had to do other things than just talk toy steam! As he left with his family to view the museum, who should turn up but Steve (Kritika)! He had also brought an engine for us to drool over, he kept us in suspense until the rucksack was opened to reveal (off all things) a N&B SR1 with burner riveted to the scuttle

I had never seen one in the flesh before, so naturally I had to take some pictures. Steve sadly had to leave shortly, as he was on a break from work. Although obviously there was enough room in that rucksack for one more engine

:

Let us hope you can join us next year Steve

Jordan was clearly having a good time, along with Paul. Obviously Paul has brought her up right! Apparently her favourite engines are the Wilesco D141 and the Mamod Roadster, so a young woman who doesn't have an opinion over which company is best!

When my Wilesco Roller was steamed up Chris, Paul and Andy all felt that they must get one. So maybe I have converted some over the weekend (laughs maniacally). As Chris said "I didn't know I needed one until this weekend!"

I received yet another phone call later in the day, and who should it be but Chris from CJW Steam! I met him at the gates and we soon boarded one of the Lydd Coaches. He had also brought with him some of his 'wares' to show and sell (naturally!).

Mike (right) makes up his mind as to what item/s will be purchased, whilst Chris (CJW, left) helps him!

Chris (Chris) (this is getting confusing!) steamed up his Luton just before he had to depart, and I was mightily impressed. So we all said goodbye to him, his wife and the baby (who is already into toy steam) as they left for Chris's mum's house. I hope you had a good time Chris, although next year please do come again

I also had a look at what CJW had on offer and I purchased a TE1A axle set, towing system, stabiliser and a brass bucket. All for the TE1A, so she should look the part next rally season

So, who knows, maybe Chris will come again next year with his stand

All too soon Paul & Jordan and Chris departed, as well as Mike. So soon ended the great day we had. Although for some the fun wasn't yet over...

As the TE people tend to get bored just sitting in their caravans overnight, we at the RailGroup run what is known as 'Steam by Starlight'. We keep Polar Bear in steam for most of the night, running from 7pm until their is no one left to carry! I was fireman and I tell you that it is one hell of an experience riding a steam engine in the dark. Headlight blazing and the cab bathing in a warm glow from the firehole door, certainly an experience never to forget! A 6 inch scale Showmans was also in operation during the night, which adds a bit of atmosphere

When the services had stopped, some alcohol was consumed so that we could get to sleep just that bit more easily

So, at 00:45 we (Andy and I) walked back to Hove and both fell asleep almost instantly. The Sunday report will have to be tomorrow, as I am knackered still

The video will be up Wednesday hopefully. Pics from the Saturday:

The mobile and stationary table, when the engines were not running.

Paul's SE2 as always connected up to some SP tools. I really must get some wooden bases for my stationaries, seeing as Paul's look so darn good

The Mamod Railway table. The Meccano Pithead gear is Mike and Andy's.

Mike's SL2. Still hoping to get one

My D141 was steamed up on the Saturday, and to good effect

This 4" Foster Crane Engine broke down, I believe it was something to do with the gears. A picture in the Sunday report.

A close up of the safety valves.

The Bear is made ready for the night's services.

The Bear in Cragside station.

The Showmans on the WeighBridge.

Chris

Good report Simon.

That is why I didn't bother writing one!

I'm still trying to work out how to buy a mamodfan twin and a wilesco roller without breaking the bank!

Oh, and then there was the Jensen.

I might have got in free, but I can tell this is going to turn into a very expensive day out!

I like shiny enigines, I just can't be bothered to put the effort in! So I have to claim to like the well used look.

johnreid

I really have enjoyed the pictures. It looks like a good time was had by all.

SillyBilly

Great stuff!

CJW

Yup was a good day apart from the traffic jam on the way there

Some very nice models on display and a great welcome from the Guys & girls who attended

.
I was very impressed by some of the tricks that the owner's had taught there engines.Chris has taught his bowman to walk across the table

and i was very impressed by the self re-ignighting jenson fire box which gave everybody a chance to blow it out

I was however Shocked

at the elf and safety.
TEDDY BEARS DRIVING CARS WITH NO SEAT BELTS !!!!!!!!!!
Sub section g345/8762 paragragh 3 line 2 off the european teddy bear driving code clearly states that teddys should wear seat belts while driving steam vehicles.
Dispite this i had a wonderfull time and would like to thank simon for inviting us and look forward to going next year.

Griffin

Great pics there, I like the TE with the front crane.

Looks like a good time was had by all.

steamgranny

Excellent report MTA (there's a future for you there, somewhere

)
Great pics & really nice to put some faces to names. Just wish I could have been there.............

Wallace

That was great to read MTA. Gives a good sense of what it's like to be there.

Well done

Graham-Jilly

Great report MTA makes you feel like your there thanks for sharing your fun weekend

Minor1PJG

First rate report Simon. Feels like I've been there twice!!

See you again soon I hope.

Paul

MTA

Thank you for all the comments guys and girls. SteamGranny, I think my future as an engineer has been established. Although if I need to do a risk assessment on something it may turn into many pages

All my pictures from the Sunday are now being uploaded, and the video is also being produced

Minor1PJG

Can't wait Simon..........

MTA

Sunday

After being rudely awoken at 8:15 by someone bashing on the door and shouting 'Get up you lazy sods!' (or something along those lines) time to prepare for the day ahead. Going with the theory 'Why bother cleaning an engine if it's going to get dirty again?' I just moved everything around as owing to Paul's absence we had a little bit more room, so less tables were needed. I went off to fetch the flatbed truck, yet again jacknifing it on that blasted gate post. With the removal of a table or two the public then had more room to move around in. Soon it was time for myself and other RailGroup members to join Polar Bear's train and have a full english breakfast in the restaurant. Then it was back down to running anything and everything. Andy went off doing his own thing, so it was mainly just Mike and myself on the stand. Ian (MamodFan) turned up round about lunchtime, and we had a good chat about Twins (MF Twins that is!), wick, burners etc. before he had to depart with his family. More running of engines followed and time went slowly until it was time to pack up and go home...

An array of 45mm gauge engines that ran on the Live Steam and Electric layout in the Railway Exhibition Hall.

A closer shot showing the Locobox Garrat.

The 6" Scale Burrell Showmans that was running during the night was first in steam out of all the engines on site. Seen here opposite the nearly completed Fire Station.

This shot almost conveys a feeling of depth. A 4" Scale Showmans in the foreground, with the 6" Scale Showmans behind.

The only annoying thing about this show is that there are just too many 4" Scale Foster Traction Engines.

3" Scale Marshall Traction Engine.

A 4" Scale McLaren Road Loco, I prefer the engines in this scale that are few and far between. For example a Fowler or the McLaren. For this engine the owner made all his own patterns, castings and drawings.

This is the 4" Scale Foster Crane Engine that broke down, dismantled. It is always nice to see an engine in a dismantled state as you can get a better look at the workings. Notice the clockwork key on the back axle

Another 4" Scale Foster. I have driven this engine before and it certainly goes well

This event is attracting more and more Toy Steam stands. I gave the stall holder of this exhibit our URL, so maybe he will join up

A delightful 5 inch gauge Sweet Pea.

Another 6" Scale Showmans was to be found on the Sunday.

4" Scale Foster Compound Traction Engine.

A boating lake is usually available for anyone wanting to bring a boat to run (or should that be sail?) during the Model Show.

Richard Knott's as always gorgeous 4" Scale Foster Crane Engine 'Poppy'. His McCarthy 4G Key Organ can be seen in the background.

This Fowler caught my eye. Like the McLaren, all the patterns and drawings were undertaken by the builder. This is a 4" Scale Fowler R3 Road Loco, and looks absolutely stunning.

Another Toy Steam stand, this time Wilesco oriented.

It's nice to see two engines of the same scale next to each other. The 6" Scale Showmans and a 6" Scale Burrell Single Crank TE side by side.

I find that a Burrell has a bit more character than a Foster in this scale (4").

Two Burrell's side by side prepare for a parallel run!

The well known Julia Old and her Modelworks 4" Scale Burrell 'Little Beastie'.

3" Scale Marshall S Type TE.

My Wilesco Roller was used extensively over the weekend. I hadn't run it in a long time, so it gave her the chance to stretch her legs.

4 1/2" Scale Super Sentinel tractor.

This shot shows the difference between the scales. L to R:
4" Scale Foster Crane Engine
3" Scale Fowler A7 Traction Engine
3" Scale Clayton Wagon

A very nice collection of Corgi Models and a couple of Markie Showmans engines!

3" Scale Allchin Traction Engine

3" Scale Ruston Proctor Protable Engine

Bagnall 0-4-0ST 'Wendy' skirts the edge of the woodyard with a Cragisde via Brockham service train.

I found this destroyed wagon on the Nature Trail. I have never walked it and found it rather interesting

The standard gauge section...

...which adjoins the kilns.

And now for the video!

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=8iHAxiYilDI

Enjoy. Now that you all have seen this, maybe it will tempt you to join us next year? Although I might need to find a bigger building to fit us all in!

IndianaRog

Simon, your pics never disappoint. What a gorgeous collection of engines of various sizes. I must say I found myself liking those 4 inch beasties more than any other

thanks again for sharing,
Rog

SillyBilly

Owch my ears hurt from listening to all that toy steam! Certainly like that Wilesco locomobile thingy, it's so gentle. Love the "Oh, actually it's videoing" bit!

MTA

johnreid

I enjoyd the pictures and Video also. Great work.

andysleigh

great vid simon,

my dad is the only one who made the pit head, i had ano part in it

Minor1PJG

Fantastic stuff Simon.

Glad to see that you captured my SA1 operating with slipping drive band when it was under my control.

It went like a dream when I let those Steam Bears drive it!

!

James

Ayup lad that's reet good like! Well done and thanks for taking the time to post it up

Steve_S

Great stuff MTA! Thanks for all of the pictures, and all of the words!

Chris

Fantastic work Simon. I thought I had avoided all camera pointings in my direction, but I see that despite my best efforts I make a short appearance in the video.

I'm still trying to work out how to afford both a Mamodfan twin and a Wilesco roller. I love the comparison in the video of the Mamod roller and TE running like nuts with the slow and sedate Wilesco. I did have a bid on a Wilesco roller the other day but it went for more than I was willing to pay (need to convince wifey to buy me a wilesco for Christmas...).

steamgranny

Excellent follow-up, plus video

Cranko

Thanks for enlightening us , sounds like you had a ball

Sandman

Really enjoyed that Si.

Well done mate.

SillyBilly

Forgot to mention that your pretty damn lucky to have already passed out as a fireman Simon. We've got to be 18 to pass out here. *counts down the days*

MTA

The next Miniature Steam and Model Weekend is to be held on the:

20th & 21st September 2008

Also, next year it is intended that the Museum will be holding a Model Railway Exhibition on the:

29th & 30th November 2008

So if anyone here would like to bring a live steam layout along please contact the museum and we can all run Mamod locos on it

If you are interested in attending the above events, please contact me via PM

MTA

By the way, I plan to not organise a stand for the Rail Gala as space is moreso limited than last year.

SillyBilly