10
Nov 02

Somerton Bridge  OO/HO (4mm/3.5mm scale 16.5mm gauge)

Somerton Bridge wasn’t originally designed as an exhibition layout, but as a club layout where members could operate their locos and run reasonable length trains behind them. Most of our club members do not have permanently set-up layouts of their own and wanted somewhere to ‘play’ trains or run-in their new locos.

Limited storage, meant we needed a layout that would take up minimal space, but provide a good sized running track. The model should assemble/disassemble very quickly and easily, be sturdy in construction, and yet lightweight enough for people to handle.

We have a diverse interest at the club, with members modelling various time periods and continents. We therefore wanted our models to run through scenery that doesn't define a particular era or a specific part of the world.  Buildings can define these criteria very easily, so it was decided to model a country setting.

The rear of the layout holds ladder sidings on both up and down tracks allowing us to make up a selection of trains ready for continuous 'trackside action'.