Gloucester Model Railway Club (GMRC)

Among the many clubs Associated with the Elmscroft Community Centre, there is a “hidden gem”, in the form of the Gloucester Model Railway Club. This club has been in existence for some 50 years, and meets every Monday evening with Chairman Harvey Whitmore, a member for over 40 years, presiding over the clubs proceedings. It is a hive of activity for model railway enthusiasts from all over Gloucestershire. The Club’s objective is simply to “Continually Develop Model Railways as an Interest or Hobby”.

The Club House is a Terrapin building, situated behind the main Community Centre building. It was donated to the Club by the Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Railway Society and just about provides enough space for members to acquire, use and demonstrate their skills and creations. Model Railway construction is activity ongoing, with any new ideas and creations often tried and tested, under the close scrutiny of fellow members, who are readily available to offer advice or constructive critique. Newer members are able to develop their personal techniques and proficiency in model building know-how, and with so much experience and expertise available, it is hardly surprising that significant progress can be made very quickly. The amount of detail that goes into creating a model railway is extensive and includes; engineering, electronics and joinery as well as arts and crafts skills/techniques.

Club Members normally meet every Monday evening for a social gathering where information and ideas are exchanged, models updated and occasionally, guest speakers are invited to attend. These are supplemented by “Prime Workshop” days in which different groups of members work specifically on their projects. Although there are a few younger members, it is the retirees, who now have time to catch up on their hobby or “childhood “interest that make up the bulk of the membership. However, for the uninitiated, It is definitely a “Boys and their Toys “experience.

Harvey, tells me that the Club has several Model Railway projects either in- build or fully constructed at the moment, and that the Finished Models are frequently, demonstrated at Model Railway exhibitions , Nationwide throughout the year. These models are constructed in various scales and gauges which range from the most popular “0” gauge which has a scale of: 7mm equalling 1 ft.; to the much smaller “N” scale which has a scale of 2mm equal to 1 ft. Harvey explains, how, when and why each gauge is used with an expertise and assurance developed over many years as an enthusiast! I’m sure he would be pleased to expand on this subject, should you contact him at the club.

The Clubs first flagship Railway model was entitled “Windrush” which was based on a railway location in the Cotswolds. It served the club well for twelve years and was seen at model railway exhibitions nationwide. It has now been replaced by the club’s latest creation, a “00” gauge, 4mm: 1ft, layout based upon a real station that existed on the outskirts of Cheltenham – known as “Cheltenham South & Leckhampton” Both of these models have been featured in the “Railway Modeller”, the essential model railway magazine for all enthusiasts, from which, a great reputation has been gained for the club.

There are many model rail clubs around the country with a huge following.... but you may also be surprised to learn of some of the celebrities who actively take part in this hobby. These include: Rod Stewart, Roger Daltry, ( The Who ), Jules Holland, Anne Diamond ( TV Presenter) and probably, the most prominent exponent Pete Waterman, a former Pop Star and Impresario, who regularly turns up for exhibitions and is ever ready to promote railway modelling. Many model railway enthusiasts make the pilgrimage, to attend the largest modelling exhibition held, annually, in the UK at the NEC in Birmingham. More locally, the Gloucester Club, hold an exhibition In October - November, each year, at Eastcombe near, Stroud. The event is a collaborative effort with a Local Scout Troop and attracts patrons from both Gloucester and farther afield too. It also generates funding for both the Elmscroft Community Centre and the Scout Troop. The next exhibition will be held 31st October and 1st November. As a cornerstone of the Elmscoft Association the GMRC, supports the Community Centre financially and have an excellent relationship established since its inception. It is finalising preparations for the Elmscroft Open Day celebrations being held at the community centre on the 8th August between 10am and 4 pm to which the whole Community is invited to attend. There is an open invitation to everyone for what should be a tremendous and enlightening display. There will several model railways on show, including Thomas the Tank Engine for junior visitors. The author of these stories was the late Revd W.Awdry who used to be the club’s honorary president. Members will be seen at work on current projects and will be available to answer your questions. It will be most worthwhile to take advantage of this opportunity to get an insight into this most specialist subject.