This month's Railway Modeller has an interesting opinion piece from our club secretary in the “Comment - Observations and opinions on railway modelling” slot. Referred to in his article, his Lumpy Barmcake and Salted Cracker railway amply demonstrates that a model can be a complete flight of fantasy and still demonstrate some impressive modelling and transferable modelling techniques.

It does, above all, emphasise that modelling should be fun. Sure, people want to see models that are high-quality, with plenty of trains or a faithful replica; but there is also that essence of nostalgia that is less tangible to capture (but makes a huge impression on visitors at a show) as well as something that makes people smile. Matt is a great exponent of this, with a track record of producing well conceived and executed models that appeal to our sense of fun and entertainment.

Whilst his current project is more grounded in 'reality', I'm sure something both inventive and entertaining will spring from his furtile imagination in due course. These creations bring that additional dimension to the club; something that seems to lack in much of today's modelling. It is something to celebrate.

Matt’s latest creation ‘The Wipers, Fish-Hook and Menin Railway’ set in a First World War front line area in France, will be on display at our open day on the 27th October, in a partially complete state.