Orwell St Johns’ although not prototypical is based on Ipswich station and is set in the 1980’s the name is derived from the Orwell River that for many years, now to a lesser degree, was a significant trading route linking this region with many parts of the world. St. John conjures up Ipswich’s links with the infamous medieval Cardinal Wolsey and his abortive attempt to create a college in this area – the site of which is but a stone’s throw from Orwell St John’s station.

Our layout incorporates a main line passenger terminus where mainline passenger trains terminate. Much of the passenger traffic links Ipswich with London catering for the great number of residents who commute to London for work, business and commerce. Freight has since the early days been a significant factor for the railway in this area. In the 1980’s it still has great significance and is the hub of many links to European and worldwide commercial markets. Continental ferry services have long been associated with this area Orwell St. John’s plays an important role in the support of those services

All track work is Peco Streamline Code 100 and the signals and point work are operated via DCC using JMRI’s PanelPro, allowing for prototypical operation. The stock comes from a variety of sources, including a of number of kit built items all of which have received some form of detailing and weathering.

Operation is done to a loose sequence; this helps ensure that there is always a variety of different stock and operations being carried out, and everyone knows what they are doing – an important consideration when relieving a driver or signalman for lunch! It also helps to make sure that stock and locos are in the correct position when required for specific operations!

Layout Size: 16' x 8' (Terminus) or 20' x 8'(Through)
Power: 1 x 13amp socket, we provide our own extension lead
No Operators: 3/4
Insurance Value: £6000
Expenses: Van Hire & Fuel for van and one other vehicle

Exhibition we have attended or are Currently Booked for

2010
Warley - December
Peterborough - November

2009
Harrogate - February
Tolworth - November
 

2008
Tunbridge - February
Norwich - March
Bushy (Watford) May
Renhold (Bedford) - August
Aylsham - October

2007
Potter Heigham - July
Bressingham - September
Chelmsford - October
Ipswich - November

2006
Brandon - Feb
Ipswich Transport Museum - March
IRMA Summer Exhibition - June

last updated : 01/04/2008