THOUSANDS of model railway enthusiasts made tracks to a popular annual exhibition at a Basingstoke school.

More than 2,000 people went to Aldworth Science College, in Western Way, South Ham, for the show, organised by Basingstoke and North Hampshire Model Railway Society.

Now in its 30th year, the two-day event featured 23 intricate layouts and 26 traders’ stalls, selling everything from model carriages to miniature platform lights. There was also a special track for children in the school canteen.

Dave Richards, a member of the organising committee, said: “This is the 30th year of the show in our 42nd year of the club. It continues to be a popular hobby. People’s interest in model railways seems to be increasing year on year.”

Among the visitors were Stafford Trendall, 69, and his seven-year-old grandson, Ethan Gilmour. Mr Trendall, of The Green, Overton, has a train set in his garage for when his grandson comes to visit.

He said: “There is an incredibly high standard of model making on show here.

“I have not been to a show like this before, and I have got to say I’m very impressed.”

Rachel Yarnton, of Beechwood Close, Hatch Warren, Basingstoke, went with her husband Chris and their three young children, who were handed stools so that they could see all the model trains.

The 33-year-old said: “I have never been before and it was my husband who wanted to come. There is lots to see and the children are enjoying it.”