The St Neots Model Railway Club Exhibition celebrated one of its biggest years, with more than 800 families and train enthusiasts taking in 10 stunning layouts.

With an increase of more than 100 people attending compared to last year, the St Neots Model Railway Club are already in discussions to make the aisles even bigger next year.

The Hunts Post: Visitors could see for themselves what it is possible to build and learn more about model railways.Visitors could see for themselves what it is possible to build and learn more about model railways. (Image: Newsquest)

The exhibition manager, Jackie Kneeshaw, said the visitors "loved the variety of layouts" and traders selling railway-related items, that they sat talking to the demonstrators for a long time learning new skills.

The popular event was held on October 14, and visitors also had the chance to vote for their favourite layout, which was won by Andrew Moore for his Kimbolton in OO gauge.

The Hunts Post: All the model railways featured stunning intricacies.All the model railways featured stunning intricacies. (Image: Newsquest)The Hunts Post: Malcolm Goodger of St Neots exhibited his Priory Yard model railway.Malcolm Goodger of St Neots exhibited his Priory Yard model railway. (Image: Newsquest)

"I overheard lots of people saying that they remembered Kimbolton Station and railway; they thought this scale model was very realistic," said Jackie.

The Hunts Post: All model railways were incredibly realistic and included various selections of hand-crafted trees, bridges and people.All model railways were incredibly realistic and included various selections of hand-crafted trees, bridges and people. (Image: Newsquest)

Andrew was awarded the Brian Rawlings Shield for Best Layout, voted by the public, and Eyemouth by John Spence was a very close second.

RECOMMENDED READING: Full steam ahead at St Neots Model Railway Exhibition 2022

MOST READ TODAY: Primary school makes huge Ofsted turnaround

Plans for the 2024 model railway exhibition are already in motion and will be held on June 15, 2024, for one year only, as The Great Hall cannot be used in October due to a refurbishment.

The Hunts Post: The exhibition was a good chance for children to see the model railways and possibly discover a new hobby.The exhibition was a good chance for children to see the model railways and possibly discover a new hobby. (Image: Newsquest)

If you enjoy model railways, pop along to the St Neots Model Railway Club's Wednesday sessions at Buckden Millennium Community Centre between 7pm and 10pm to learn more about the hobby.

The Hunts Post: Several layouts featured lifelike scenery to accompany their model trains.Several layouts featured lifelike scenery to accompany their model trains. (Image: Newsquest)

The Hunts Post: More than 800 people attended the event throughout the day.More than 800 people attended the event throughout the day. (Image: Newsquest)