Model railway enthusiasts in North West Leicestershire finally have an opportunity to get together at a new club in Coalville.

Sponsored by Rocket Railways, a model shop based in the town, the Coalville Model Railway Club was established in April and is already off to a flying start.

The club meets on Wednesday evenings from 7.30pm until 9pm in a dedicated clubroom located above Escape Coalville in the Belvoir Shopping Centre.

Each week, members can chat together over tea and biscuits, and participate in collaborative model-making projects.

Just over two months since its launch, the club has already completed a small OO scale layout based on a fictitious rural station.

The next project is far more ambitious, as they plan to build a scale model of Coalville railway station.

All materials and tools are provided by Rocket Railways.

In addition to weekly meetings, members also enjoy a package of exclusive benefits, including 10 per cent off all purchases from Rocket Railways and privileged access to new stock as it arrives.

Each new member will also receive a limited edition OO scale Snibston Colliery wagon, made exclusively for the Coalville Model Railway Club by Dapol.

Membership costs just £30 a year — the equivalent of one cup of takeaway coffee a month.

Rocket Railways first opened for business in October 2019, and arrived in Coalville in the winter of 2020/21.

Established with the aim of providing model railways at affordable prices, the business is a leading supplier of high quality used models and accessories.

As a family-run company, Rocket Railways continues to abide by an ethos of accessibility and fun, which they hope to champion through the Coalville Model Railway Club.

Rocket Railways Managing Director, Jason Thickpenny, said: "We believe that railway modelling should be a sociable hobby, full of friendship and sharing.

"This new club offers a space where everyone is welcome to come along and take part in collaborative projects. Young or old, experienced or novice, everyone has something to offer. Our members have already thrown themselves into their first project with gusto — it is great to see people sharing their skills and knowledge."