My first Warley Show was excellent. But I am now a poor man! I guess these two statements almost have to go hand in hand.

The Shipston Branch benefited enormously, with several significant additions, including a GWR Dukedog which was my impulse buy, a TCS decoder for the 57XX, new wheels and bearings for the Hornby Clerestories, Brassmasters coupling rods for the Midland 3F and various bits and bobs. The various small suppliers at the show were most helpful. Sylmaster provided many items listed on my "to buy" sheet. And in general I found the exhibitors to be friendly and interested in my questions and comments. Thanks, guys!

There is no doubt that laser cut kits are part of the future; two companies were showing examples of how high the high end can go. Greenwood Model Railway Products exhibited what are basically laser kit turntables still under development but very close to being ready for market. I calculate that their kit is three times the cost of the Peco kit but since I have now bought three of the latter their cost is competitive. My next turntable will probably be a Greenwood (60 ft vacuum style, please!). The other high end manufacturer is Timbertracks and their engine sheds are fantastic. Unfortunately at the moment they are mainly GWR and not LMS, but the future could open up all sorts of possibilities.

Not much evidence of 3D printing (the demonstrator had to call in sick, unfortunately) though I am following this new branch of the hobby through RMweb.

I have been following the new product announcements with interest though in all cases they are not likely to be on my wish list. The nearest would be the DJ models/Hattons 14XX/48XX/58XX loco, but I am currently making a Comet/Airfix hybrid and that will be just fine. I understand there are now two different Adams Radials in the works which seems like unfortunate over kill. A Midland 2F 0-6-0 or similar would seem to be of a lot more use to more modelers - numerous built, wide distribution as well as a wide range of liveries.

I had not been to the NEC for several years and in the interim a lot of good things have taken place. It is a truly huge but magnificent location and very versatile as well. The cost of food and drink does seem to be high, though.

A few photos:

Waiting for the door to open:

Talyllyn:

Warley (NEC) from Talyllyn's cab:

Bellerophon: