Record figures welcomed to modelling show

The London Model Engineering Exhibition welcomed record figures at Alexandra Palace this January with close to 14,000 attending the show, an increase of 21% on last year!


The chugging engines, smell of steam and busy aisles were evidence that model engineering is definitely still alive and being enjoyed through the generations. The show, now in its 11th year is the only one of its kind in the capital and the south east, and brought more than 1000 models of every type to the Great Hall at Alexandra Palace. 

With models of trains, boats, planes hovercraft and tanks, enthusiasts are keeping this traditional hobby alive, whilst the show has proven that there is a younger generation of modellers interested in the pastime. This year, more than 800 children visited the show with their parents and grandparents, a huge increase on last year, suggesting families are enjoying seeing what modelling is all about.

This year, the introduction of the Model Activ Zone brought more action to the show and the opportunity for the younger visitors to see real steam layouts, actually build aircraft and have a go at flying them, drive tanks in the Tank Command Battle Zone and launch mini rockets to see how high they could go! More than 40 modelling clubs from across the country displayed their creations including steam engines, aircrafts, boats, tanks, rockets and cars.

Avril Spence, show organiser commented:
“It's great to see fathers walking round with their sons, sharing a common interest. We developed the show this year to bring in a new element and incorporate a wider range of exhibits, meaning every element of modelling was covered.”