This inspirational ‘OO’ Southern electric layout was a popular exhibit of the 1990s and early 2000s show circuit. After a lengthy absence from the public eye, PAUL WADE reveals the story behind this fabulous layout, and of its recent and warmly welcomed revival. Photography, Trevor Jones.
Above: Narrow bodied Class 33/2s 33201 and 33208 lead a rake of ballast hoppers onto the Up line heading for Woking. Ground signal 113 controls reverse moves to that occurring with the main signal PE148 controlling moves through the station with its 4 route indicators in the Southern Region style of only 3 lamps per route.
THIS IS MY second exhibition layout following on from Maidstone Barracks which did the rounds in the 1980s. That was retired due to baseboard problems so ideas for a replacement were started.
I was looking for a design that combined my Southern Region Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) with my expanding interest in departmental wagons and on-track plant. I had enjoyed modelling a prototype location before with the mix of research, design and the challenge of recreating items large and small, much of which had to be scratchbuilt or heavily modified.
My working life put me at an advantage as I worked for the railway from my appre…
