OO Gauge Exhibition Layout
A former Midland route through South Gloucestershire set in the early 1960s
The original Forest Green was exhibited at Exeter Model Railway Exhibition in 2012. It ran well and generally received positive reviews. This led us to build a new version specifically with exhibitions in mind which made its first appearance at The Exeter Show in 2013.
From 2014 until the present it has appeared at other shows in the south west as well as Sileby in Leicestershire and The Great Central Railway.
The setting remains as a former Midland route through South Gloucestershire but we have moved the time frame forward a few years to the early 60s so several diesels are now appearing.
1970s-1980s
The original Forest Green railway layout was built by Ray White and operated during the 1970s and 1980s. It was inspired by the Somerset & Dorset Railway and featured authentic period details that captured the essence of this historic line. Ray's layout was renowned for its attention to detail and operational realism, serving as inspiration for many modellers and remembered fondly by all who operated it.
Work began on a complete rebuild of the Forest Green concept. This new layout, known as "Forest Green Mark 2," was constructed from scratch using modern materials and techniques while maintaining the character and operational philosophy of Ray White's original. The original Forest Green made its debut at the Exeter Model Railway Exhibition, earning positive reviews from visitors and fellow modellers.
Encouraged by the success of the original, work continued on Forest Green Mark 2, specifically designed with exhibitions in mind. The rebuild incorporated lessons learned from decades of model railway development, featuring improved trackwork, enhanced scenic techniques, and more reliable electrical systems. The new layout made its first appearance at The Exeter Show in 2013.
From 2014 onwards, Forest Green Mark 2 began appearing at various shows throughout the south west, expanding its reach to enthusiasts across the region. The layout's reputation grew, leading to invitations to exhibit at Sileby in Leicestershire and The Great Central Railway, taking the South Gloucestershire countryside to new audiences.
Our layout pays homage to the Somerset & Dorset Railway, capturing the spirit of this beloved line through careful attention to period detail and authentic operations.
The Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway operated from 1862 to 1966, connecting Bath and Bournemouth via some of the most challenging terrain in Southern England.
Forest Green has been exhibited at numerous model railway shows across the UK, bringing the charm of the Midland Railway to enthusiasts nationwide.
Coaley Junction is a separate Somerset & Dorset Railway layout that was often exhibited alongside Forest Green, providing a comprehensive showcase of S&D operations.
Forest Green was frequently exhibited together with its sister layout "Coaley Junction." Both layouts represent different aspects of the Somerset & Dorset Railway during the 1950s-1960s transition period. When displayed together, they provided visitors with a more complete understanding of S&D operations, from rural countryside scenes (Forest Green) to junction operations (Coaley Junction).
The junction layout serves as a focal point for complex railway operations, demonstrating the intricacies of train movements at a busy S&D junction during this fascinating period of British railway history. Together with Forest Green, these layouts told the complete story of the Somerset & Dorset Railway.
Forest Green Mark 2 was brought to life through the dedication and expertise of a talented team of modellers and railway enthusiasts.
Ray White - Original layout designer and inspiration for Forest Green Mark 2. Ray's vision and craftsmanship in creating the original Forest Green during the 1970s-1980s provided the foundation and character that guided our rebuild.
Primary Contact: Rob Whish
Email: robwhish@yahoo.co.uk
While the current status of Forest Green is retired from active exhibition, the team's expertise and documentation remain available for those interested in Somerset & Dorset Railway modelling or similar projects.