Wirral Model Engineering Society
About Us
Colour Brochure to download (.pdf 837KB)
The aim of the Society is to foster and promote the hobby of model engineering in all its aspects and to help, encourage and provide facilities for its members.
The Wirral Model Engineering Society (WMES) was founded by Mr Harry Roberts in November 1961. The first meeting was held at his home and a Society was formed. Membership quickly increased and soon meetings were being held once a month. The Society now holds its meetings in the WI Hall in Thornton Hough. These being held on the first and third Thursdays of each month.
Talks are arranged on a wide variety of topics together with demonstrations of members work and interests. Visits to exhibitions and places of interest are arranged where sufficient numbers are forthcoming. Social events are also popular.
You are most welcome to come along to a couple of meetings or view the activities in the Park to help decide whether you want to join. We will always try our best to provide any information you need to make up your mind.
The Society is a member of the Northern Association of Model Engineers (NAME).
The Raised Track
The first raised track was constructed in Royden Park, Frankby in 1966
following planning permission from the then Hoylake Urban District Council. The
track catered for 21/2" and 31/2" gauge locomotives operating around a basic
circle. 
The practice of giving rides to the public came into being and with the
generous donations given by the public, sufficient funds were raised to extend
the railway. The enlarged track of some 1200 ft in a folded loop configuration
was completed in 1980 and included a 5" gauge rail so larger locomotives are
able to operate on it. Passenger trucks were built and the raised track
continues to provide the people of Wirral an enjoyable ride behind a scale
miniature steam locomotive. During the late 1980's the rails were replaced with
a fully-welded construction, the rail being flat bottom bull head. It has been
very successful and has withstood the rigours of public park life and the
environment well. However, the 2.1/2" gauge rail was not installed due to lack
of interest in the gauge. In 2004 a carriage storage facility was built on the
site. In 2005 a scissor-lift was installed to assist reception of
locomotives.
Locomotives
The locomotives that operate on the raised track are usually fine scale
models of full size engines. They are generally coal fired, producing steam
just like the real thing. Many people are amazed that such small engines have
the power to provide rides for so many passengers. There is quite some skill in
driving and firing a miniature locomotive safely. However, it is readily
learned and is a very enjoyable part of the hobby. The Society has a club
locomotive available to members so that all those wanting to operate and drive
a miniature steam locomotive have the opportunity to do so.
The Ground Level Track.
The 71/4" gauge ground level railway was constructed by society members following the granting of planning permision in 1999. The local branch of the Royal Engineers gave us a welcome boost by excavating the ground for the track bed on the field. This involved moving around a metre deep strip of soil some 25 metres in length, and building an embankment, saving us hours of work with spades and barrows. On the 9th July 2000, 1899 ft of track had been laid and the railway was officially opened.
Work continued on improving the track and facilities in the park. A loop out in
the field was added increasing the length of the ride to 2267 ft. Over the
years snowdrops, daffodils and bluebells have been planted, the flowers
providing a wonderful and much admired display.The railway running to narrow
gauge practice, has proved very popular with the public. Weather and staff
permitting, the railway operates on Sunday afternoons throughout the year.
There is considerable 'behind the scenes' work required to maintain and operate the railway. 2009 saw a move of premises within the park and a great improvement in facilities both for the railways and for members. Should you be interested in helping with the facilities and railways we are always pleased to provide details. There is often a 'work party' on site most Wednesdays.
The layout includes a 4-line station with turntable close to the raised track, a line 'down' the park to the field with an inner circle and a crossover between inner and outer circle, followed by an 'up' return line. Three steaming bays are provided adjacent to the 'up' line near to the station. The main part of the railway is double track and provides plenty of driving challenges as well as great changes of scenery. In 2005 a scissor-lift traverser was installed to assist reception of locomotives.
Locomotives
The society owns three locomotives which are available for
members to drive. There are two Petrol/Hydraulic locomotives that are the ever
ready stalwarts of the railway. We also have a large steam locomotive that is
much loved by members and public alike. Members undertake a short training
programme before hauling passengers on the railway. Society members also own
locomotives that they run on the railway, sometimes hauling passengers and
sometimes running 'just for the fun of it'. To my mind there is nothing better
than sitting behind and driving one's own locomotive. (ed)
Wirral Model Engineering Society © 2011. All rights reserved.