G Rail 2007 Rugby

Saturday 28^th. April  2007

I find this show difficult to judge sometimes. Mainly I suppose because it probably depends whether you attend it as a G scale Society Member or just as a visitor.

As a member you can make use of the excellent members sales stall, which this year was well laid out. You can check out your local group, if they have a stand. If you are into societies you can attend the AGM and make your voice heard.

If you judge the show as a visitor it lacks the variety of layouts seen at other shows.

It has the reputation of being a ready to run show. But this year there were some exceptions to this with 301 Models for track and some truly sensational handmade steel bridges by Bridge that Gap. I am definitely getting one for my railway.

It was good to see some steam running on the Whiteleaf railway and the Gwizz group always put on a good display.

All the usual traders were there putting all those irresistible temptations and offers in front of us. Roy Jones of Pendlebury Models gave a demonstration of how models should be finished. A modelling competition and raffle were on hand too.

Perhaps for me the best moments came with meeting fellow modellers and this if for no other reason may G Rail long continue.

Parking was easier this year, even though I had to do a hill climb on the grass to get a space. A space it was and free.  Disabled parking was at a premium  but access to the show  was easy. It was comparatively easy to get round for everyone including wheelchair users and layouts and stands generally offered no problems regarding height. I thank the very kind lady wheel chair user for the information.

The catering was fine and on my two visits no real queues or seating problems and the food was ready quickly. The staff were nice and friendly.

There are always a lot of volunteers at this show who give up their time to make sure that it runs smoothly. The car park attendants, those in the hall that greeted you on arrival and give you a free badge (nice touch), those that twist your arm for a raffle ticket, the stalwarts of the members sales stall and the organisers themselves and the members that run the area stands etc.. I mention no names because as a team it seemed to me that you all worked well and my thanks go to you for an enjoyable show.

This is a personal view by rambling Roger  (sorry about photos lighting did not agree with my camera or poor photography these are my best!)

Rambling Roger 2007.