Model railway exhibition raises £2,000

More than 650 visitors of all ages were enthralled by the intriguing displays at Chichester Lions Club's 22nd annual model railway exhibition on Saturday.
Visitors loved watching and playing with the trains at Chichester Lions Club's annual model railway exhibition. Pictures: Kate Shemilt ks16001139-5Visitors loved watching and playing with the trains at Chichester Lions Club's annual model railway exhibition. Pictures: Kate Shemilt ks16001139-5
Visitors loved watching and playing with the trains at Chichester Lions Club's annual model railway exhibition. Pictures: Kate Shemilt ks16001139-5

Held at Chichester High School, the exhibition was officially opened by Chichester mayor Peter Budge.

Around £2,000 was raised for the club’s welfare fund, which supports local people in need.

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Lion Peter Wilson said: “It is one of our biggest single fundraising days and everybody had good fun.

“We are unusual because we will allow people to actually run the trains. We would like to thank everybody for their support and hope to see them all again next year.”

There were 22 layouts of various scales, sizes and vintage, with six of them accessible for young and old to drive the trains.

Among the trade stalls and information stands were Chichester Model Engineers, who gave advice on the intricacies of steam engine operation, and specialist toy valuer Chris Gale from Toovey’s Auctioneers, offering advice on selling old toys.

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Lion Chris Cheney said: “The annual competitions and games were as popular as ever and prizes were awarded to the winners.”

Mr Budge chose John Reeves from Emsworth for Best Presented Layout.

Lion president Richard Cowell chose Bognor Regis MRC for the Highly Recommended Layout prize.

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