Set in the 1950s, this layout illustrates the narrow gauge clay lines that existed on the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset. Originally the lines were of two gauges 2ft 8ins and 3ft 9 ins. Eventually the lines fell into disrepair and in the 1950s what was left was laid to a gauge of 2ft and the line eventually closed in the early 1970s. The model is not prototypically correct but features handbuilt models of some of the original locos and rolling stock including the unique two sided van and school wagon ,and also scratchbuilt models of some of the original buildings.
In addition to the clay trains; using modellers licence it is assumed that the line ran west from Corfe to Kimmeridge Bay and this gives the excuse to imagine a small station, engine shed and good shed at Norden (nr Corfe) and to run a selection of freight and passenger stock. All the stock is either scratchbuilt or from heavily modified kits. The layout features buildings with full interiors and two working turntables, a working crane and working steam shovel. There is full lighting on the layout and the main lights can be dimmed to represent twilight over the Purbeck Hills. Do ask the operators any questions they are happy to chat.
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