ENTHUSIASTS from as far away as Norway made tracks to Keighley for an annual model railway event.

The visiting group was among hundreds of people who attended Keighley Model Railway Club’s tenth annual 7mm Festival.

Eleven layouts were in operation at Sunday’s event, at the clubrooms in Keighley Business Centre.

Organisers said they were delighted with the success of the festival.

“It just goes from strength to strength,” said club spokesman Steve Ward.

“We had a great day – the place was packed.

“People travel from across the country to be there but the presence this year of the visitors from Norway shows the level of regard the festival is now held in, not just at home.

“The party was also visiting the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway during its weekend stay, but its prime reason for travelling over here was the festival.”

Four of the layouts running belonged to the hosts, while the remainder were from guest clubs.

O-gauge traders were also present and other attractions included clinics and displays, plus a bring-and-buy stall.

Catering was provided by Denholme Scouts, with a range of hot and cold food and homemade cakes.

“The 7mm Festival is a specialist event – the others cover the whole range of gauges – and it is a hugely popular area,” added Mr Ward.

“Our 7mm group has been well known throughout the modelling world for almost 40 years for creating some of the country’s most sought-after exhibition-standard layouts – winning many awards along the way.

“Its members and their layouts have contributed to a number of books, videos and television features and the group is an integral part of the club and its annual exhibition each March.

“Our 7mm Festival is now the third largest of its kind in the country.”

The Keighley club has nearly 90 full members, plus juniors and ‘friends’.

Its next event is the annual Christmas open day, which will be held at the clubrooms on December 30.

Visitors will be invited to take along their Christmas presents to operate on the tracks, and festive food will be served by Denholme Scouts.

For further information about the club, visit keighley-mrc.org.