Show Report by Bill Curtis, SMNs Armour Editor – 12 June 2011
I had decided to go to this show last year as it was the first one by this club but circumstances conspired to stop me.
So this year it was good to know that I could attend and on the appointed day set out with my good lady wife. The day started with bright sun and the drive was nice and easy with no hold ups and we arrived in the market town of Downham Market and found a parking space from the map that had been sent to Geoff. A short walk and we were at the venue (The Town Hall) and paying the entrance fee we decide to have a walk round then get a coffee. We had been told that all the proceeds were being donated to the Norfolk Air Ambulance so not only the chance to see models but to help a worthy cause.
The displays both Cub and SIG (special interest group) numbered about twenty and on top of that 5 or 6 traders were present, including SMN of course. When we arrived both halls were full and the traders looked to be quite active.
The models on display were varied and the host club displays showed a variety of subjects including Armour, Planes, Ships, Lorries and Figures. In all an impressive display!
A few models stood out for me, like the Vietnam river diorama, the three V bombers, the Sabre with some nice burnt metal on the jet pipe and the Coastal Command Liberator to name but a few. Check out the pictures and judge for yourself.
As usual it’s a social occasion and one sees people from other parts of the country as well as some from my own area and to chat with new like minded people. All in all this was a good day.
As with most shows, there was a competition which encompassed all the models on display and judged by the members of the visiting clubs who were displaying. A new idea for me and one I think some others could adopt. I even got a Merit award for the Chaffee displayed on the Scale Modelling Now stand which was nice.
My wife had also found some other ladies (model widows) and had a good time.
On the way home we both agreed it was a very good show, well attended and friendly. I think this could be a good event to put on ones calendar and next year is down for a visit.
Well done lads and lasses.
Bill C.