IT WAS full steam ahead for train enthusiasts in Corsham this weekend as Wiltshire's biggest model railway exhibition attracted people in their thousands.

More than 2000 visitors descended on the Springfield Campus over the weekend where 55 stands, including 22 working model layouts ranging from the First World War to the present day, were displayed.

Geoff Endacott, who has been organising the exhibition for more than 20 years, said: "We are the largest event that the Springfield Centre hold and have been since our event last year. It went very well and the visitors numbers were around the same in previous years for our second year in Corsham.

"We try to have top quality lay outs from all over the country. We deliberately don't have a best in show because that is like comparing apples to oranges or pears but all of the layouts were my favourite."

The organisers, who praised the Springfield Campus for its modernity and relaxed atmosphere, also admitted that bookings for the next couple of years have been made.

"The main thing for us is that people enjoy themselves," Mr Endacott added. "We have had people saying they will see us next year and we already have some really big layouts that we have been trying to secure for a number of years booked in right up until 2021.

"I think there is an enduring fascination with the small model world and people like to be in control - that's why people will continue to visit us."

For more information about next year's event, which will take place from April 14-15, visit www.trainswest.org.uk.