Well as experienced modelers will know chipboard is not a recommended base for track but I used it because it is inexpensive. OK because I found that although Hornby track pins will not indeed grip at all well on chipboard the very fine Peco pins do - just needed to drill some sleepers for the thinner pins and take a bit more care in fixing - job done. Also Hobbycraft sell foam and felt sheets in A4 size, much less expensive than Hornby track base product - very useful for miscellaneous base requirements, but for authenticity you may want to re-colour as the greys on offer are not a match.