Compiled by Geoff Foreman, including an extract from the Northwich Guardian.
The dream of a Hartford man to restore the era of steam to Northwich took a leap forward recently, thanks to a local newspaper, with the formation of the Mid Cheshire Society of Model Engineering.
In an article in the May 1974 edition of the Northwich Guardian, the story of Mr. T. D. Robinson, a building company director of Beach Road, who has been building perfectly-detailed working models of steam engines for nearly 30 years, was told. He wanted to find other enthusiasts with a similar interest who could pool their work and set up a permanent track, where these miniature locomotives could run, giving people the pleasure of seeing the magic of the iron steamers of yesteryear.
“Since your report, I had a tremendous response from local model engineers and now we’ve formed a society”, said Mr. Robinson. An inaugural meeting was held at his home with five people joining and many more have contacted him to express their interest in reviving the age of steam. Explaining the Society’s plans, Mr. Robinson says: “We are open to anyone who is interested in model steam engines, whether they’re rail engines or traction engines and we hope to share our equipment to set up a workshop for those who can’t afford some of the costly precision tools needed.”
The Society is also working on building a portable track to take to fetes, so people can see the models in action. Eventually it is hoped to set up a permanent track and to this end, the Society have approached Playing Field Associations and plan to contact Vale Royal Council and Parish councils in the area. They are also appealing for any private landowner willing to loan a suitable site, to get in touch with Mr. Robinson.