If we said to you ‘Model Engines’ we’re certain it would conjure up something very different to what the LLANELLI & DISTRICT MODEL ENGINEERS actually do. After cancellations last year, they have a special event to mark their 15th Anniversary this weekend.
So, let’s look ahead to what will be a much anticipated, and extra special event this year. They’re hosting a very welcome Miniature Steam Rally at Pembrey Country Park and this is definitely something you’ll enjoy, whether you’re a model engine lover or not.
That picture below is the reason why. Yes, they are model trains, but as you can see, these are nothing like those you’d find in a bedroom or garage. Just look at them. The detail is incredible, the track layout spectacular and the work these guys put in is seemingly never ending.
The club itself dates from the early eighties, but there has been an active model engineering club in Llanelli since the thirties. They have some 65 plus, members from all walks of life, as well as many country members from around the UK, some do have engineering skills from their working past, but most have no formal training, and many are self-taught. I guess what brings them all together is the passion they all share for steam engines in some form.
They hold Steam Rally weekends which have grown significantly over the last few years, and is now a major event in the national vintage calendar. That is certainly for the warm Welsh welcome visitors receive. The location within the Country Park is stunning and also the excellent facilities the miniature railway has for the visiting locomotives and their drivers.
We’ve been to events like these before and defy anyone not to have a great time. There’s something about the steam and the wind in your face as you sit on these miniature engines that makes you smile. Last year the rally had a number of exhibits from all over the UK and Ireland, including Steam, Diesel and Electric Trains running on both their ground level and raised tracks, giving passenger rides on both days.
Take a look at Robert Masterman’s film of the 2018 event and you’ll see what we mean. You get to see the Miniature Railway in action, with a wide variety of locomotives in both 5″ and 7 1/4″ gauges. The event was organised by Rob Rayner and his small team.
Over the STEAM RALLY weekend there really will be so much to see and do. Getting up close, personal and riding on these engines is such good fun. With the added attractions at Pembrey, it really is the perfect place to spend a day. You can even grab some food while you’re there too, so it really is a great day for everyone.
The 15th ANNIVERSARY STEAM RALLY will be held at Pembrey Country Park in Llanelli over this weekend of this weekend, 24th and 25th September. Normal park admission is usually around £5 per vehicle and there is no additional charge for the rally itself. For more details about the rally and the club just CLICK HERE.
Incidentally, if you’ve not been to Pembrey before, it really is spectacular. It’s one of Wales’s Top Visitor attractions providing a unique blend of coast and countryside. Set inside 500 acres of woodland and alongside eight miles of golden sands, they have everything for a perfect family day out. PEMBREY COUNTRY PARK. When the world is fully operational that is…..
