I had my doubts during set-up, but by the late afternoon de-rig it was fairly clear; the push for the hobby at the moment is a) British diesels and b) continental. My slightly negative comments of late re: exhibitions were reversed - the ERA show was uncomfortably full at times and there was money being spent in large amounts from what I could see. This wouldn't normally be my sort of thing, but officially 'assisting' on Svanda meant I had time to compare and contrast. The general shows and the finescale are on a downward shift and the events like this are on the rise.
What was most evident was the chat and enthusiasm through out the day. I'd often thought that the continental modellers were a bit of a tribal bunch -it appears not. The team reported a better than expected day and we were well provided for. Halal chicken tikka sandwiches were a new item on the exhibitors lunch menu, but were eagerly snaffled up by self. 10/10
This was technically Svanda's last show; not that it is being retired, but simply that there is nothing else in the book. Time to consolidate.
I know what you've said about general shows, and their overwhelming proliferation, but how do you think the specialist narrow gauge shows are doing?
ReplyDeleteNot giving me good thoughts about Croydon Show next weekend, though we have a couple of Japanese layouts and a German one
ReplyDeleteRichard
I helped Richard Glover operate "Sand Point" at the Hersham show on Saturday....it turned out to be an excellent little exhibition, a good balance of layouts, enough trade and fairly busy most of the day despite the fine weather.
ReplyDeleteThere had clearly been a lot of thought put into the organisation and the catering (sandwiches etc.) was decent.
I think these things come and go...steam, diesel, continental, US etc...though I must admit that I could have done without being sandwiched between the (nicely modelled) TMD layout with the sound on the locos turned up to its strident maximum and the Thomas layout with attendant screeching children.
I think the big difference with the narrow gauge shows is that they tend to be supported by the various area groups and are often more in the nature of a gathering of mates than a conventional exhibition.
Oh, and I forgot to mention...the Hersham show is organised by some lads who are still in their teens. Ok, so they've had help and support but they are still where the buck stops...good for them.
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