Amazing model of Kings Cross Station to be exhibited for charity in Frampton Mansell

Paul and Pepita Walker, 83 and 79, who live in the village, have been perfecting the model for over a quarter of a century.

The event on May 16 and 17 will showcase their Kings Cross 1956 model and the hands on and child friendly Rainbow Express model, provided by Alan Postlethwaite of Eastcombe.

Paul, 83, began building the replica of the London railway station around 25 years ago and since then it has grown to such an amazing size it needs three people to operate it.

The railway model has around 80 switches and is now so large it takes up an entire room in their house.

Paul said: “Growing up in the war and seeing all the trains in operation, I had a real interest in railway lines and trains from a young age.

“I started building a model of Kings Cross station as it was in the late 1950’s – i.e. in the days of steam.

“The real station itself is a fantastic piece of architecture; I was determined to make the model as lifelike as possible.”

While Paul has handles much of the modelling of the track, Pepita has done a lot of the artistic work, including making miniature inhabitants for the railway.

“Although designed to live in the house, we have been persuaded to take the layout to several shows round the country over the last eight years,” he added.

Now holding their very own show, the money raised in donations will go towards the charity Railway Children.

The organisation supports children who run away from home because of poverty, abuse or neglect in the UK, India and East Africa.

Paul and Pepita's station will be operated by three generations of their family who are visiting especially for the event.

Their intricate model will be on display on May 16 and 17 from 10am to 5pm. Entrance will be £3 for adults and under 18s free.

For any inquiries, emailpaulwalker1@btinternet.com