Giz Puk

Do you not find that most of these are Southern Rail commuters trying to get to/from 'The Smoke'???? After all those of us who don't come from the 'Bright lights-Big City' are used to it down 'ere in Zummerzet..... we 'ave Badger Buses and Shanks's pony. Yours Aye, Giz OOOH-AAAAR

They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and for me I think that you have to go a long way to match the images so accurately captured by David Sheppard. For those that have seen the DVD of 'Southern Steam Remembered' a selection of his work is viewed highlighting his ability to accurately capture the reflection of the subject in the pools of water and detrius associated with engine sheds and also his ability to project a 3D image. This man like many others, has what I believe to be real talent, unlike me who would come last in a painting competition for 5 year olds..... mind you my potato stamping with poster paints is to die for..... no it really is to 'die for' it is that bad. Although I could not afford one of David Sheppards' prints, I did recently purchase the iconic image from 'The Great Gathering' as a limited edition print by a local artist here in Somerset by the name of Alan Ward. For those interested in viewing his work he has a studio in Burnham on Sea and a web site www.alanwardcollection.co.uk although I must stress that I am in no way promoting his business other than to recommend others viewing his work, particularly if they have an interest in the local area around the SDJR. Would it be wrong to say I also like some of the jigsaw puzzle views of trains...... or is that a no-no? Yours Aye, Giz

Whilst recovering in bed and feeling down, my mind drifted to thoughts of other threads, Jenny Agutter, Emma Peel, Nigella Lawson and Edwige Feneche ( remember her Dudders and co?). My thoughts then turned to my one true love.... my Hornby GWR Pannier tank. Why then is it, that after some 45 years she is held in such asteem, after all she does have an early form of smoke generator but lacks accurate body features compared with the modern offerings, lights, DCC or sound. Sound....Sound..... perhaps herein lies the answer. Whilst DCC and sound in particular has advanced at an alarming rate with many realistic chips now available, in my mind it still doesn't hit the mark in that no matter how good the quality, it can never replicate that deep vibrant resonance in your ears and chest that being up close to the real thing brings. Having commented earlier on the subject of what for me anyway meets the criteria for a layout or model to be inspiring and award worthy, many would agree that it is the small and often insignificant details that have the greatest affect on people. One of the details I feel meet this most impecably belongs to Captain Kernow. The addition of a white rear mudguard to an old bicycle propped against a wall on one of his layouts immediately took me back to my old bike leaning up in my nan's alleyway and strangely enough to the white rubber mounting for the reflector and the smell of those degraded rubber pedals. The SMELL.... that was the one essential sense missing and the one which immediately sent my mind racing through long lost images, smells and tastes faster than I can get them down..... my head is now full of them..... all from that one tiny image. As I sit here now, I can see my grandads' old threadbare jacket and flat tweed cap hanging on the back of the kitchen door to the pantry complete with the smell of mothballs, and brylcream still on the comb tucked in the top breast pocket. (funnily enough he was bald.... but in denial I think). I always remember him combing the little bit above the ears along with the festideous cleaning of his shoes..... (from when he was in the army during the war). Instantly my memories went to the sight and smell of the plastic rainbow hanging from the back door to keep the flies out in summer and the heady smell of geraniums on the windowsill. So how come all this, along with distant memories of places.... and faces...of sights and smells, can be experienced from one such tiny detail and in doing so does this then leave the current trend for flashing lights, bells whistles and DCC Sound pale in insignificance? Hopefully this thread has reminded you of what has stirred your memories and made others question if the sometimes costly expense to achieve that perfect sound chipped layout or model really is actually necessary when we already have those sights, sounds and smells locked away inside our heads. Finally if perchance you see a strange Meerkat looking fellow, gazing blankly at your exhibit before a twinkle in the eye and a smug gin appears, then may I just say THANK YOU.... because your exhibit is AWARD WINNING, in that it has taken me back to those places and faces of loved ones that I will never be able to see again except through that sometimes seemingly insignificant detail you have captured so well. 'A picture paints a thousand words....... but a memory is truly a treasure worth receiving'. Yours Aye, Giz

Scooby.............. 'I just called..... to say......... I love it......' If you modelled pre-nationalisation GWR ............. we'd have to call you 'Sir Duke'. don't knock yourself down as I think it's far better than those ready to plant versions from certain top manufacturers. If you're so worried about the handles just trim them down a bit. It may look poor to you..... but to the rest of us it looks great. keep up the good work and lots of photos please. Yours Aye, Giz

Having taken a few minutes to read this thread, it has now thaken exceedingly longer to contemplate the points raised in many of the posts. First can I say that I have never exhibited a layout, but have a great admiration for those who are brave enough to do so particularly those attending shows which contain those big name layouts as headliners. For me there are elements of this hobby that compare to the Hot Rod and Custom Car scene that I was part of back in the eighties.... in those days shows were won by individuals who had paid for companies to build their cars for them, wire them, fit custom interiors and spray jobs to the highest standards and to which their only involvment was simply to sign the check book. ( At one show the winner arrived within a custom built covered trailer, the ' winner ' was rolled out for the judging of the 'show and Shine', photographed with the best of show trophy which was taller than a small child then pushed back into the trailer for the road trip home.......... later having been asked why the big block blown V8 wasn't heard running, the owner admitted that the immaculately detailed engine was really a dummy with no interior components. In reality the 'Winner' was...... a 'Loser'!!!!!!!!!! What has this to do with railways you may ask........ well luckily we still have the courtesy to rate our offerings not on how much the layout cost but on its more personal merits. Anyone with money could get their boards custom built, professional wired and detailed, stock professionally weathered, sound and lights fitted, and with operators wearing matching uniforms and corporate image would certainly be in the running for best of show and another trophy to add to the accompanying display cabinet. Now don't get me wrong...... this is a brilliant showpiece for our hobby but not one I feel should detract people who can never achieve this from entering into the hobby for fear of their efforts being perceived as inferior in some way. For me, I rate a layout initially on the operators, if they appear approachable, friendly and willing to share their skills and advice with others of all standards, I will spend longer with them even if their layout is asthetically less pleasing than the afore mentioned layouts. I particularly liked the idea of the recognition of a layout for attracting viewers to start or return to the hobby, as in my case, it was a non descript layout, the name of which I can't even remember but obviously hit a chord. To my mind it doesn't matter what scale, era or region we model, to me its about the passion and interest in railways shown by the operators and their ability to inspire others and make them feel that they have got value for money by supporting the clubs, exhibitors and traders through their entry fee. I personally don't like the idea of big trophy 'shields' you keep for a year then hand back as I would prefer to recieve one of those 'cheap' trophies or better still a hand made trophy, as made by the 8 yr old visitor in a previous comment above. To me these are more worthy of receiving than any gold plated 'Layout of the Century' accolation. As you can guess I will never consider my efforts to be of the standard to win awards should I ever exhibit a layout, but surely hearing someone who is not an expert say ' Oh..... I like that bit ' is surely recognition enough especially if you then discover that seeing your work inspired them to go on to build something... even if it is only a thomas starter set with a shoebox for a tunnel and a pile of books covered in a green cloth for scenery. From small acorns mighty oaks grow, likewise if you rubbish someones efforts they may never achieve their dreams. Apologies for going slightly off topic and rambling on, but basically if you are in this game to collect trophies, please display this fact in big letters above your layout so that those of us who think we know the real value of exhibits can concentrate on those layouts that we feel represent our hobby best. Surely apart from the exhibition plate as a keepsake the best award must be conveyed through word of mouth and the expressions and attention of those attending. Also don't forget the tea and cakes when recognising contributions to our shows, as in honesty we all spend longer drooling over the victoria sponge than that show winning layout. So well done to all those 'Tea Ladies' and Gentlemen providing refreshments as you deserve a trophy every time. Yours Aye, Giz

Hi Shippers!!!!!!!! Stop knocking yourself down, if I were you I'd be proud of what you've achieved and have the photo in a folder with others to record all the shows you attend. Having looked through the photos within this thread, I love the idea of using the Hornby goods shed as a museum and was wondering if you would mind if I adapted this idea when I build a layout for my grandson as I think its brilliant. Don't laugh but I too have been collecting the thomas range as I know he will love to use them, first on his layout then on mine once he is bigger. My main layout will be called 'Jubilee' as it is based on the Hornby range from 1977 to 1979 with additional modern items as well, and my aim is to illustrate what can be achieved by adding brick paper, posters and other items for minimal cost. Once again brilliant effort and I look forward to more updates. By the way my wife laughs at my bald spot......... but I don't care...... she's only jealous because its my layout and I choose who gets to have a go. as they say in Brizol.....'Crackin' layout Grommit'. Yours Aye, Giz

Many thanks for that hayfield, in my case I believe that the pitch of the roof is too shallow, I estimate 11-13 degrees thus allowing rain to be driven under the tiles. So far we have tried sealant, larger lead flashing and numerous cheap solutions, but I think I am no resigned to waiting until it next leaks and try to trace it back. Unfortunately the interior ceiling in the extension will need attention as the water has seeped between the plasterboard joints. Luckily the lines underneath are protected by ice cream tubs when the weather looks dodgy and at least there has been no water damage to the layout. Proof again that cutting corners for speed and cost is not always beneficial in the long run. Were it not for living in the South West where the wind drives in from the Bristol channel, I think I might have got away with it. Of note the new 'man cave' for the layouts will have a flat roof sealed properly with fibreglass. (my layouts are definitely more valuable than her extension but don't tell her I said that as she only knows what I told her they have cost me. Top tip: consider how the weather will affect your building whether it be wind, rain, heat or cold from the outset as all can have detrimental effects on your layout and rolling stock. Yours Aye, Giz

I couldn't agree with chris p bacon more. Far too many of us think we can get things done cheaper without realising factors such as minimum working wage, the rising cost of materials and equipment required plus the fact that many of these professionals are expected to carry out the work in cold wet conditions. I would always recommend using professionals, as a good one will advise you which bits you could do yourself to save labour costs. Don't forget though that these people need an income but have lives of their own too. When urgent problems arise however, they can often be counted on to turn up out of hours and a short notice. The less work we are willing to pass their way.... the less of them will be available to take on our small jobs compared with the security offered by large scale projects. Yours Aye, Giz

Good morning LBRJ, first of all apologies if my previous comment came across rather negative but whilst i must admit that on the whole many tradesmen as you rightly say are genuine, unfortunately as in my case, i was hoodwinked by a Del Boy Trotter type character. My extension roof was built by a registered roofer, recommended by a local firm. Unfortunately when the roof began to leak, we found that he had taken the money and ceased trading shortly after. To cut a long story short the roof pitch was incorrect and with driving rain from the South west it gets under the tiles and through the ceiling........... all trains currently cancelled due to water on the line. Despite numerous attempts to correct, we are now looking at a complete rebuild of roof as a worse case scenario hence why i suggested using recommendations from members and associates to ensure things go well. in this case the wish to get it completed and on time for minimal cost clouded my judgement. If your mates are anything like mine they might happily help out at minimal cost providing you supply the beer and barbie(burgers not the doll)to make it a social event rather than just a job. As an added bonus they can help later on with the functional testing of the layout (again more beer and pizzas . Wishing you luck with the conversion and look forward to seeing the results when finished. Yours Aye, Giz

just came upon this thread and I'm sure that this subject will have been covered by an article in one of the magazines. unfortunately the only one I can think of is the garage case study in the 'design manual' from another rival magazine beginning with 'H' which was sold through that high street newsagents a couple of years ago. Although not going into too much detail, the photos and accompanying text does show what can be achieved as well as covering one point that is usually forgotten.... good thermal insulation for the floor. Apologies if I repeat items already covered and although I would not try to teach anyone to suck eggs, the best advice I can recommend is to seek the advice of professionals whether it be building, insulation or electrickery, but only using people recommended to you by word of mouth and by people who have had the work done themselves. How many times do we hear ' I know a mate who..........'. What sounds cheapest doesn't always work out that way and the best way is to do it once and do it right. See also the thread on security (as highlighted by Black Rat and others), especially concerning doors and windows prior to ordering replacements as this too could save you a lot of money in the long run. Yours Aye, Giz

Be proud of the kids when they call it a train set. This means that as well as including the trains......... everything makes a set. AND WE ALL KNOW THAT YOU CAN'T BREAK UP A SET........................... YOU CAN ONLY KEEP ADDING UNTIL YOU HAVE THE WHOLE SET. (clever these kids)

Slightly off topic but Lidl has electric powered oil filled radiator heaters with frost protection setting for FORTY dib dabs. Items come on castors with 3 power settings, a frost protection setting and an optional 500w fan setting. Ideal for that cold back room or garage layout. ( also doubles up for the house when t'coalman is late delivering due t' bad weather). Not many left in Bridgwater as I expect these will sell out fast. Yours Aye, Giz

Couldn't agree more, Little muddle provides a fantastic backdrop to a classy model, if only we could see images like those above in the manufacturers catalogues. I know its heresy to even contemplate this, but I can't help visualising it in silver with sparks coming out the back and that generator sound as piloted by Larry 'Buster' Crabb (AKA Flash Gordon). hands up who didn't go AH-AH when reading Flash, I know I did (both times) Yours Aye, Giz

It used to annoy me that I would look at layouts such as Everard junction, Dean Park, and Abbottswood junction with envy. If I am honest knowing that I could never muster the skill to reproduce the exceptional scenery, working signals, crossings, operating vehicles with lights, DCC sounds and detailed formations so stunningly emblasoned in Andy Y's photos (and videos posted by the proud owners), often used to make me feel quite depressed and consider 'why bother I'm just wasting my time as I'll never have anything that good'. Well not any more like minded fellows.......... I'm doing something about it right now. I've just finished work near Yeovil so I'm going home to get a morale boost..... Yes I'm going down to Cogload Junction near Taunton and spend half an hour in the fresh air watching my 1:1 scale GWR Modern Image layout. I've got FGW Green HST's, FGW DMU's. Cross country liveries, sometimes I'll even run preserved steam specials all with the correct headcodes (coaches even include passenger figures too) and the best realistic sound system going. Still feeling depressed........NO!!!! I've got the best layout in the world and I bet you have too if only you can afford to spend half an hour reliving your childhood fantasies. IMAGINATION.....Without it you're no-one. Yours Aye, Giz

I too missed Taunton this year but now have no excuse to miss next year. I've got a full set of Hornby FGW Dynamic Lines coaches and the recent GWR Green livery (none weathered unfortunately as can't afford for someone with the skill set to do this for me.... take note all you self proclaimed expert weatherers) (or DCC chipped) which I would quite happily bring along for you to use if you need more rolling stock for the event as i'm only just up the road. You think you'd seen it all with the kid in the green jumper excitedly watching you previously....... well guess what.... You ain't seen nothing yet as I too can get hold of a green jumper.... watching this thread with interest, more excellent photos and text Pleeeeeeease. Yours Aye, Giz Round and round and round she goes..... will she stop nobody knows............. this is exciting!!!!!!

Is annoyance defined as ' congratulating yourself on doing a job that's really well done........... only to then see the latest offerings from other modellers which make yours look like you been modelling in a pair of oven gloves with the lights off'. hats off to all you great modellers out there and please keep posting your photos and educational threads so that we who are not worthy can at least try to emulate your stirling work.......... if only to a standard appreciated by a small child or genuine modeller and enthusiast. Now where did I put those oven gloves.............. Oh powers gone off again............ where is that flippin' torch?

Arrogance towards other modellers: At a recent show one exhibitor was displaying a modern era layout..... poor scenery and only one item in use.... brand new DCC sound CL66 with 10 x hopper wagons (approx £80 each). A young lad about 14 who is a regular attendee with obviously not much money as he walks to the venue, pays the entry fee in a mix of small denomination loose change and purchases all his items from the bargain basement whilst watching his peers deliberate over the £100+ items next door, spies the jinty on the layout and finally plucks up courage to ask the operator 'why is there a steam engine on this modern era layout?'. To both myself and my wifes disgust and the shock of the poor lad.....'WHY NOT?' the exhibitor snapped back. I immediately retorted in a loud voice 'Perhaps its down from the local preservation line for maintenance', then my wife said in an equally loud voice ' Or he's only got two locos because he's spent all his money on one train to get free entry to the show.......... and anyway the scenery is rubbish and i could do better..... and i'm a girl!!!'. outcome was the boy laughed, the exhibitor was brought back down to size and for the rest of the day we saw the boy enjoying the show, interacting with other friendly exhibitors and smiling every time he saw us. Hopefully we'll see him at the next SDJR area small event..... unlike the arrogant imbecile who obviously thinks having expensive stock is more important than showing that this hobby is about enjoying what we do and encourage and help others to enjoy it too regardless of age, sex or wealth. Mine will never be on par with 'Little Muddle', 'A nod to Brent', or many more layouts showcased on RMWeb that we are all envious of and wish we could emulate, but at least if someone is willing to take time to look at my attempts or listen to my ramblings...... i will always give them the respect THEY DESERVE and take time to interact with them. THEY ARE THE FUTURE !!!!!!!!!!!!!! secondly i hate people who get on their soapbox and 'Gob Off'................. yes dear i'll just finish the washing up now....................................................................