A new model railway exhibition will open to the public next month at Coalville's Belvoir Shopping Centre.

Located above Escape Coalville - at 21 New Broadway - this new attraction will feature three model layouts in an eclectic showcase of this much-loved hobby.

The exhibition offers something for all the family, including a fun 'Thomas and Friends' display based on the ever-popular series of books and television programmes.

Visitors can also expect to see two layouts created for the 'Great Model Railway Challenge', a television competition for modellers broadcast on Channel 5 in 2019.

Recently purchased from semi-finalists 'Team Muddle and Go Nowhere', the layouts include a fantastical model inspired by Jeff Wayne's musical adaptation of War of the Worlds, and another based on James Bond films, Octopussy and Goldeneye.

The exhibition's grand opening will take place from 11am until 4pm on Saturday, March 5.

There is no need to book in advance, and admission costs only £2 per person.

All money raised through admissions will be donated to Heath Farm, an organisation based in south Lincolnshire, which provides residential and day-care services for adolescents and adults who have autistic spectrum disorders.

After the initial launch event, the exhibition will open from 11am until 4pm every Friday and Saturday, and 11am until 3pm on Sunday.

A small selection of model railway items and souvenirs will be available to purchase.

The family-friendly exhibition is sponsored by Rocket Railways, specialists in used model railway items, based at the Marlene Reid Centre — just a short walk from the Belvoir Shopping Centre.

Established with the aim of providing model railways at affordable prices, Rocket Railways opened for business in October 2019, and relocated to Coalville from Grantham in the winter of 2020/21.

The business is now a leading supplier of high quality used models, and was recently named 'Model Railway Shop of the Year' in the 2021 Central England Prestige Awards.

As a family-run company, Rocket Railways says it continues to abide by an ethos of accessibility and fun, appealing to newcomers and veteran enthusiasts alike.

Nearby parking is available at the Market Hall Car Park (LE67 3XA), with the first two hours free of charge.

Managing Director, Jason Thickpenny said: "We are so proud of Coalville's rich railway and industrial history, and hope that this new exhibition will bring a glimmer of the past back to life.

"We are also keen to attract new and younger enthusiasts to the hobby, and hope that visitors will be inspired to start