Model Rail
Volume 3

The linking theme of this programme is a series of site visits to level crossings, ranging from hand-operated swing gates to modern lifting barriers. We visit three crossings with traditional gates and three with lifting barriers and they are all very different, offering loads of potential variety for you model making. Nigel Harris, Model Rail Managing Editor, introduces the programme from Oakham - prototype of the celebrated Airfix/Dapol plastic signalbox kit.

Starting with baseboards
You don't have to be an expert carpenter! Chris Leigh shows how the baseboard frames for Model Rail's Total Test Facility modular layout are being being built - easy carpentry for you to follow. he shoes how the frames are built in a simple jig to ensure that they all turn out exactly the same.

Radio-controlled '00' - a Great Western 'eye opener'
We go behind the scenes at David Clarke's unique Hallgates '00' layout where trains operated by radio-control run under fully authentic GWR signalling. Semaphores and colour lights are controlled from 210-lever signallbox. We see the layout in operation and our minicam provides a unique driver's eye view.

Military precision - how to model MOD traffic
In association with the May 2000 issue of Model Rail which contains a special feature article, we take a look at military railway traffic and the operation of special trains for the Ministry of Defence including a behind the scenes glimpse of the MoD railway at Bicester and Marchwood.

Over the top - how to build the finest footbridges
Most model footbridge kits are designed for ground level mounting and are much too high when fitted on a station platform. Chris Leigh shows how to build and modify a Hornby kit to make it wider and lower - just like the real thing.

Prototype inspirations the 'A3' 4-6-2s and Deltics
To link with the March 2000 and April 2000 issues of Model Rail we present a selection of archive footage featuring Gresley's 'A3' 4-6-2s and the ever-popular 'Deltics'.

Instant rust and coal
We round off with a look at coal traffic in the steam era and a remarkable new product which allows you to add real rust to your models - even on  plastic wagons!

Level crossings
We visit Oakham, Uffinton, Bainton, Tailington, Helpston, Woodcroft and St James Deeping.