After some last minute finishing off, Chitterne was finally exhibited at the EMGS Spring Expo EM at Bracknell on the weekend of 14/15 May where it joined five other layouts which were participating in the Chairman’s Challenge.
We were delighted to attend with our layout, particularly as the Chitterne team had very little experience of exhibiting. Whilst we didn’t win the competition, we were very pleased with the positive comments from many spectators, and to receive outline offers of exhibiting Chitterne at future shows.
None of this would have been possible without some sterling work by all members of the team, especially as Covid or physical injury reduced active numbers at crucial times.
Richard S as Project Manager kept us on schedule and produced a fine scratch built bridge over the Chitterne Brook.
Chris H initially honed his woodworking skills to produce the baseboards, laid and wired the track, and then oversaw the creation of the landscape and its attendant vegetation. While Richard was away he worked hard to ensure the layout would be ready on time. He even came up with our invaluable Latin motto!
Chris B produced the initial artist’s impressions of the putative layout, constructed the loading dock and then worked very closely with the other Chris on the landscaping. He also scratch built a delightful goods shed.
Clive created a scratch built engine shed and coaling stage which gave just the right atmosphere for a small branch line terminus.
Lawrie produced cardboard mock ups of the station building for consideration before presenting us with the stunning fully finished plasticard model.
Joe was responsible for the original idea and produced kit built crane and water tower.
And we must also pay tribute to former member Rob who, before he went off to live by the sea, made the splendid brass control panel. Needless to say everything worked smoothly.
