Who are we?
We are a group who enjoy all aspects of Gauge 1 Model Railways, including making and running locomotives and rolling stock, building scenery and meeting up together regularly on the second Wednesday and last Sunday of the month.
Where are we based?
The group is headquartered between Bury St Edmunds and Ipswich, within easy reach of the A14. We have members in Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire.
What facilities do we have?
We have a large indoor track hall with a permanent, scenic layout approximately 18 x 8 metres, on which we operate coal-fired, spirit-fired, gas-fired (all live steam), and battery powered locomotives. These can be free running or radio controlled.We have a clubroom with seating, library and refreshment facilities, as well as large screen television with CD/VCR.There is ample parking next to the facility.
Who should I contact if I want to visit?
If you would like to discuss more details of what we have to offer, or to arrange a visit or learn more about Gauge 1, contact our membership secretary, Keith Plumb, at keithjplumb@btinternet.com
Do you exhibit at shows?
We have two portable layouts, a large one, known as “Anglia Roads”, which is, approximately 15 x 8 metres and an end to end layout which is approximately 5.5 metres long. These visit shows a few times per year.
What is Gauge 1?
Gauge 1 runs on 45mm track, and can be a variety outlines from modern Electric to Diesel, Steam, UK, European, USA etc. Gauge 1 is larger than many of the other gauges used on Model Railways. Typically locomotives and rolling stock are built to 1/32 or 10mm/ft scale.As a comparison 0 gauge runs on 32mm track and is 7mm/ft scale 00 gauge runs on 16.5mm track and is 4mm scale.
What is 'live steam'?
A “live steam” locomotive (engine) is one that is driven by steam which is produced by heating water until it boils. Just like the real thing.
Can I run electric locomotives on your gauge 1 track?
None of our Group layouts have electrified rail. Electrically powered locomotives have on board battery power.
Do I need a loco to join?
No, the Group has three electrically powered locomotives and rakes of coaches and rafts of wagons that members can use.
Is Gauge 1 very expensive?
It is as expensive as you want it to be. You can join the Group and use our locomotives and rolling stock. Build your own Locomotive from a set of plans or a kit. Make items or parts using a 3D printer. Purchase a ready to run Locomotive and rolling stock, either new or second hand. We have members who represent the whole spectrum, who will be happy to discuss and advise on all options.One supplier is currently offering a kit, based on a LNER Y6 tram engine for around £130.00 which includes all laser cut parts, wheels and electric motors. Batteries are not supplied and radio control is extra if required. At the other end of the scale a new ready to run live steam, model can be in excess of £4000.00, but there are many options in between.
Where do I find Gauge 1 loco’s for sale?
There are several Traders listed on our 'useful links' page - here - and also on the Gauge 1 Model Railways website www.G1MRA.com that offer new, and second hand locomotives and rolling stock for sale, as well as kits and parts etc.
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