Meridienne Exhibitions

The Midlands Model Engineering Exhibition, now in its 38th year, took place from the 15th – 18th October and was a great success and visitor numbers held steady.

Well over 1000 models were on display across the 42 club and society stands and in the competition and display classes. Modellers were also able to stock up on supplies from the 52 specialist suppliers who were at the exhibition.
The lectures on a wide range of topics by knowledgeable experts were well attended by visitors and there were also some interesting workshop demonstrations.

Inside the packed exhibition halls special displays celebrated the life of Len Crane –one of the Midlands Exhibitions founding supporters and a judge for many years. He is best known for the restoration and rallying of Fowler B6 Super Lion Crane Engines. He also restored several other engines and was also instrumental in restoring the 1895 Vertical Triple Expansion Engine at Bratch Pumping Station. The tribute featured his 3” scale Burrell Traction Engine “Briggitte” which was awarded the Duke of Edinburgh Trophy in 1971.
Polly Model Engineering presented a special display to commemorate John Clark, the designer of the extensive range of model steam locomotives based on his original Polly design of which many hundreds have been built.

Outside action included parades by the magnificent Fosseway Steamers, displays by the Gas Turbine Builders Association and the popular 5” gauge passenger carrying locomotive and also the Midlands and South East RC Truckers.
This year’s winners of the prestigious Society Shield, awarded to the best club/society stand, Melton Mowbray & District Model Engineering Society, in second place was Hereford Society of Model Engineers and in 3rd place Coventry Model Engineering Society.