Presentation

There is more to exhibiting a model railway layout these days than simply producing an attractive model railway scene with reliable operation. Since I last showed a layout about forty years ago (yes, really!), standards have risen! My resources have improved, though, and, to some extent, my abilities, so I hope I can rise to the occasion. I have now added a plywood screen (quite low so that those who are interested can watch what we do off-stage), and the screen will carry information about the layout, and any exhibition badges which we may acquire.

I decided when I began the layout that I was going to use clear varnish rather than paint the woodwork: I thought that would look good and emphasise the timber construction of the layout. The legs will be hidden behind curtaining and so do not need to be varnished, but the baseboard framing, which is quite deep, is varnished and I hope will set off the appearance of the models on top. The curtains are to be hung from Velcro on the underside of the baseboard framing: I have the material and will be producing the curtaining shortly.

Innsdorf will be shown at the Stamford Model Railway Show on 9th and 10th May 2026 at Stamford Welland Academy, organised by the Market Deeping Model Railway Club: tickets already available online. See you there!