A HIGHBRIDGE school hosted a popular annual show for model railway enthusiasts on Saturday, with proceeds supporting local Scouts groups.

The Bristol and Somerset branch of the Hornby Railway Collectors' Association (HRCA) gathered at the King Alfred School Academy on October 29.

The event saw Hornby O gauge and OO (Dublo) scale layouts running alongside some other brands. 

There were also displays of Meccano and Dinky toys and trade stands offering new and second-hand products.

This was the Bristol and Somerset HRCA's 12th annual show, which moved to Highbridge from Shepton Mallet in 2013.

Steve Sands, chairman of the HRCA Bristol and Somerset Group, said: “Our show this year was very successful.

“We had nearly 200 people through the door, including a significant number of children.

“It gives us special pleasure to see the joy on the children's faces as they watch, or even help to run, the trains.

“We also enjoy reminiscing with our visitors on shared experiences with Hornby trains.

“Refreshments this year were by the local mobile caterers Country Bumpkins, who everyone agreed did an excellent job.

“The charity we support varies from time to time.

“We have in the past supported the Friends of Burnham War Memorial Hospital, but this year we will be donating to the Scout organisation.

“In future, we would love to work with another Burnham charity if we could find a suitable partner.”

The HRCA is a national body that supports people who collect and run toy trains made by Meccano Ltd of Liverpool between 1920 and 1964.

The local branch meets monthly in Weston-super-Mare but has members travelling from Bristol, Somerset, south Wales and beyond. 

For more information, contact Steve Sands on 01934 413053.