The Hornby Railway Collectors Association (HRCA), which was formed in 1969, is celebrating its 55th anniversary by hosting a special exhibition, which will be open to non-members on Sunday, 7th April. HRCA events are normally members only, but an exception has been made for this event.

The world-famous former Meccano factory in Binns Road, Liverpool, produced Hornby O Gauge, Hornby Dublo, Dinky Toys and associated ranges including Meccano itself. Whilst the name Hornby is still very much part of the current model railway scene, today’s models are far removed from those that were built in the Liverpool factory up until 1964, when production ceased.

Meccano products were well engineered, ensuring their long-time survival. Hornby Trains and the later Hornby Dublo products were sold in most corners of the world and were sold not only by specialist model shops, but in toy shops, newsagents, bike shops and even chemists!

The 55th anniversary exhibition is being held at the Lady Eastwood Hall at Newark Showground and will include 22 operating layouts, plus 12 displays and extensive trade support.

HRCA president Nicholas Kitchen said: “It has been five years since we last assembled such a large display of Hornby O gauge, Hornby Dublo OO trains, other Meccano brands including Dinky Toys, Meccano and the Bayko building system. Members are attending from across the world and we are delighted to be able to provide non-members with the chance to come along and meet us, hopefully encouraging them to keep these trains operating for many years to come.

“It is over 100 years since Frank Hornby launched his first clockwork train set and we have come a long way since then. Such was the engineering prowess of the Meccano factory, that keeping these old models operating is not as difficult as people imagine, thanks to a comprehensive supply chain producing spare and replacement parts. Whilst the Binns Road factory is no longer in being, the trains manufactured there are still clocking up the miles – long may they continue to do so”.

Sunday admission charges will be £5 (cash only with accompanied children free). The exhibition will be open from 10am to 4pm.

Further information about the HRCA can be found at www.hrca.net

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