Making Tracks 3 - ModelSigns hop on board as official scale lighting supplier!

ModelSigns are pleased to announce we're partnering with Making Tracks 3 - the third in a series of ambitious OO gauge model railway projects supported by Pete Waterman OBE, Mike Wild of Key Publishing and The Railnuts modelling group, with ModelSigns as the official scale lighting supplier.

*This article is from August 2023, the original event has now passed*
This summer marks the return and third instalment of the Making Tracks project to Chester Cathedral. This year's layout, a scale recreation of Milton Keynes Central, measuring an impressive 64ft (19.5m) is set to spend the summer in the cathedral open for all to see, with a full complement of platform and street lighting supplied by ModelSigns.

ModelSigns founder, Chris Gillespie [left], pictured with Pete Waterman OBE [right] at the Railnuts HQ during the layout's final weeks of construction.

The model railway exhibition and its interactive elements are sure to keep kids and adults entertained! The exhibition will be running from 26th July until 2nd September (closed on Sundays) at Chester Cathedral.

Are you planning on visiting? We'd love to see your photos/videos of our ModelSigns lights on the layout! ...also be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the ModelSigns branded billboard and container!

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More information...

What Can Visitors Expect?
Making Tracks 3 features a brand-new layout that builds on the successes of the 2021 and 2022 events – modelling Milton Keynes Central station. The layout will be built around the same storage yard as the first two but will feature an entirely new scenic section to capture the West Coast Main Line station set in the current-day. It’ll include detailed replicas of real-world buildings and locations like churches, schools and business parks as well as working signals and level crossings. Plus, it’ll come complete with lights and sound to bring the scene to life!

Interactive Elements
The exhibition will also feature some interactive elements sure to keep everyone entertained, including the chance to operate the trains using digital controls! The goal is for visitors - both experienced modellers or not - to leave with a greater appreciation for how complex model railways are designed and constructed and perhaps to pick up the hobby themselves.

Educational Value
It’s not just about fun though; Making Tracks 3 has educational value too! It can teach children about engineering principles such as electricity and magnetism through play while allowing parents, grandparents or guardians to learn more about this classic hobby and gain tips from modellers who share their passion for OO gauge building.

Save the Dates!
This summer's Making Tracks 3 at Chester Cathedral offers something unique that you won't want to miss! This event is perfect for families looking for something special to do during school holidays and weekend getaways. With its detailed replication of Milton Keynes Central Station to explore, there's no better way to experience the amazing world of model railways.

So make sure you don't miss out on all the fun at Making Tracks 3 this summer - open Mondays to Saturdays from 26th July to 2nd September.

Event information from Paul Boyland at Chester Model Centre

Project Sponsors -
ModelSigns - Scale Lighting
Chester Cathedral - Venue/Catering
Hornby – Track and Rolling Stock
Peco – Points & Catenary
Accurascale - rolling stock and scenic materials
Tom Connell – Limited Edition Art Prints
UK Departure Boards – Destination Boards
MegaPoints Controllers – Model Railway layout control systems
Hornby Magazine – Exposure, Articles, Transportation
Chester Model Centre – Modelling Supplies
Hanson Plywood – Sheet Materials
PJM Models – Model Railway Buildings and Electronics
Railcam - Online Streaming
Pete Waterman OBE