October 1st, and the last of three running sessions bringing members of the 'Two Moors' and 'Central Somerset' 16mm Groups together. It's not all 16mm:1ft scale though as, quite often, we see 7/8" scale operating on the line. These models are noticeably larger and our video begins with a couple of examples.
With the drizzling rain gradually reaching our domain at Woody Bay station by about 2pm we'd seen plenty of action, finishing with four steam engines in pursuit of each other - not a usual scene on the WBGR.
The Woody Gate scene is now hampered more and more by falling leaves, so the layout has been now bedded down for the winter and due to open again next April for another season.
Should any viewers who live locally like to help our operations in 2024, why not get in touch...our website has contact info.
woodybay16mmrailway.wixsite.co... (please note the website address in the November 16mil Bulletin is incorrect).
The 'Two Moors' Group is North Devon's long established 16mm fellowship, and 'Woody Gate' their communal outdoor meeting venue hosted by the fabulous Lynton & Barnstaple Railway. Meetings during the L&BR's running season occur on selected days from April until the end of September, but we try to include as many weekend runs as we can...being a small group with extended family commitments in tow, this is not always possible, so weekday sessions sometimes satisfy for any retirees among us (and that's actually most of us).
The track gauge is 32mm and the radii can handle Beyer-Garratts as can be seen in our video at: • Video
Overlooking the L&B railway's loco yard 'Woody Gate' sits between the 'real thing' and the miniature ride-on 7-1/4" line.
A new build modern tea room is adjacent to the layout, so sustenance is easily catered for.
Trips on the L&B to Killington Lane Halt are on 'all day valid' tickets - travel the line as much as you like. A gift shop provides the usual merchandise of heritage railway giftware, books and DVDs.
In operation for only 37 years from 1898 the L&BR, ultimately changing hands to the Southern Railway for a second phase of its life, was entirely lifted in 1935 and so rebuilding the line is an almost 'from scratch' challenge, though all the station architectures still happily exist. The latest acquisition is Blackmoor Gate which over time became a restaurant, and remains so. The L&B now continues to serve 5 star licenced catering at the 'Old Station House Inn', and the location is to eventually be revived as the next major railway stepping stone after Parracombe, complete with a new visitor centre and loco and coach storage sheds...all just within the extreme western boundary of the Exmoor National Park.
The 'Woody Gate' model railway attraction is still less than two years old, the installation having been finished last July, designed and constructed voluntarily by enthusiastic members of both above mentioned 16mm Groups who now share the outcome of their creative effort.
Sensibly constructed for the practicalities of comfortable waist high operation, up to four trains can run on two circuits at a time on this 32' long layout. The 'baseboard' is of generously donated 'Dibond' sheeting which, though just 3mm thick, is stout and cannot rot or rust. How we built the layout is shown in videos at our website. It took about 6 months to complete.
Gratefully received donations of track helped to furnish the layout, with any out of pocket purchases to complete the build funded by the L&BR. Donations, however small or large, are always accepted with much gratitude on running days, and this helps to keep the layout maintained.
Most buildings are built using the selfcast rapid cement 'JigStones' system introduced to the hobby by Group member Pete Chandler about 32 years ago, and the durable silicone rubber mould product is still available through Modellbau-Werkstatt in Germany. Pete is always pleased to advise the use of the system for creating weather resistant modelling of literally hundreds of tailored to suit designs. It's often been said to be a bit like Lego, but in no way do creations achieved need to look toylike. Sadly the idea is of 'Marmite' choice to some, despite the realism that's possible, the main reason being that care and patience is required in its use. Unlike our current off the shelf world, back in the '90s, scratch building was prevailant and resin kits unheard of. Many present day resin kits actually carry on the legacy of the system through the use of it for pattern making. An honour indeed!
16mil Association members are very welcome on running days. Let Roger Gardner knowof your interest...see our website for his contact info.
For news of updated footage during 2024 please subscribe. But for now, we wish all a Merry Xmas and a Very Happy New Year.
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