The super-sized success of V&A Dundee has proved the platform of inspiration for small-scale railway enthusiasts ahead of their latest Angus showcase.
Kirriemuir will host a special exhibition marking the half century of the Hornby Railway Collectors’ Association (HRCA) this weekend.
The event organiser has used the Dundee tourist attraction’s opening Liners exhibition as the theme for his display, capturing the power and elegance of a bygone era.
Kirriemuir enthusiast Dale Smith said: “It reflects the period of intense competition between the LNER and the LMS railway companies in the 1930s which led to beautiful streamlined locos pulling gorgeous rakes of high quality coaches.
“Some of the locos carry local names or have strong associations with Scotland. The most requested runner is sure to be the A4 Union of South Africa.”
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of HRCA in 1969, just a few short years after the demise of the original Meccano Hornby label.
Mr Smith said: “Members of the Scottish section HRCA will be taking the opportunity to showcase a range of the early products from Meccano including 1920s and 1930s Hornby Series O-gauge in both clockwork and electric and, of course, the later Hornby Dublo.
”Many men and women of a certain age well remember the sturdy solidity and all round quality of the Hornby ranges and it is always a great pleasure to see and hear folk reminiscing about the toys and models of their youth.”
The exhibition in the Guide Halls, Roods, Kirriemuir on Saturday April 13 will see part of Mr Smith’s extensive collection on show, alongside those of fellow collectors from across Scotland.
He said: “Most of the exhibitors would not describe themselves as railway modellers, they are collectors who have built layouts of traditional toys and models, in most cases in unaltered, original condition.”
The Union of South Africa.He added: “The layouts are populated with every household name from the toy world – Triang Minic, Spot-On, Dinky, Corgi, Britains, Bayko Light Construction buildings and many others.
“The combination of all of these and more, bring a unique atmosphere to the exhibition in Kirriemuir. The displays truly are vintage and there for all to enjoy.”
The exhibition runs from 10am to 4pm.
