Coalville-based model shop, Rocket Railways, has launched a new initiative with the aim of giving broken old trains a new lease of life.

Specialising in spare parts and models for repair, 'Rocket Railways Reclaimed' encourages enthusiasts to adopt creative solutions to restore locomotives to working order.

Most model trains are designed to last many years, and can be passed down through the generations.

But motors wear out and accidents happen, which means that all locomotives have a finite working life.

Rather than consigning them to the rubbish tip, the team at Rocket Railways believes that creativity is the key to sustainability through finding new uses for damaged models.

Rocket Railways Reclaimed is a new enterprise dealing exclusively in spare parts and broken items.

Though they are currently trading exclusively on eBay, there are plans to open a second shop in Coalville in 2022.

From complete locomotives to spare wheels, fittings, and scenic accessories, the new online shop offers a comprehensive range of items for modellers of all ages and abilities.

Faulty locomotives may be used as donors for spare parts, or exhibited as static models.

Similarly, wagons can become garden sheds or line side huts, as they did in the real world.

Among the most popular product in their ever-growing range is the 'Mystery Box', which includes a random assortment of rolling stock and accessories for only £10.

Each 'Mystery Box' contains enough materials to keep a modeller busy through the Christmas period.

All that is needed is a little skill and imagination.

Managing Director, Jason Thickpenny says: "Like all good businesses, we always want to be responsible with our waste.

"The best form of recycling is re-use. Just like a scrapyard is great for salvaging parts for your car, Rocket Railways Reclaimed offers essential parts to keep your model trains going.

"Many of these locomotives and items of rolling stock would look great even if just as static models or can be re-painted to create a masterpiece."

Rocket Railways processes hundreds of new and used railway models each week.

The business started out in Grantham in October 2019 with the aim of providing model railways at affordable prices.

They abide by an ethos of accessibility and fun, appealing to newcomers and veteran enthusiasts alike.

Rocket Railways moved to Coalville in the winter of 2020/21, attracted by the town's rich industrial heritage and opportunities for expansion.

In September 2021, Rocket Railways hosted their very first model railway show at the Marlene Reid Centre in Coalville, attracting hundreds of exhibitors and visitors from across the midlands.

They also recently appeared in an episode of 'Hornby: A Model World', a new documentary series on UKTV's 'Yesterday' channel.

Rocket Railways Reclaimed on eBay.