PETE Waterman's Making Tracks 2, a model railway installation at Chester Cathedral, is set to finish this Saturday (September 3).
The record producer, songwriter and railway enthusiast worked alongside the Railnuts modelling group to create the brand-new 'OO' gauge layout, which is sponsored by independent hobby shop, Chester Model Centre.The layout has been in action since July 18 and is set to make its final journey this weekend.
The exhibition, which has returned this year after a successful 2021, is based upon a stretch of the West Coast Main Line - the approach to Rugby station from Kilsby Tunnel in the south to Hilmorton Junction at the north end of the model.
Chester Cathedral took to Twitter to remind visitors saying: "Don't forget this is the last week of Pete Waterman's Making Tracks 2 at Chester Cathedral.
"Come see the phenomenal layout in a medieval space."
The layout features a four-track main line throughout the scenic section, but impressively it also has grade separation to cross the Down Northampton line over the Up Fast line at the big junction which occupies one corner of the layout.
Don’t forget this is the last week of #peterwaterman’s #makingtracks 2 at #chestercathedral. Come see the phenomenal layout in a #medieval space 🚂 #modelrailway #Chester #thingstodo #trains pic.twitter.com/ixZDdaMoNA
— Chester Cathedral (@ChesterCath) August 29, 2022
The era for the new layout is the modern day on the West Coast Main Line, but with a few nods to its past around Hilmorton Junction by including the lattice bridge faces.
In addition to building the scenic section, the team has also rewired the layout with new modules from Megapoints Controllers to introduce train detection around the layout to allow operators and the viewing public to keep an eye on progress of trains as they move around the layout.
Rolling stock also features in the show including long container trains, Pendolinos, parcels trains and more.
Making Tracks is included in the Cathedral's Summer Entry Ticket: £2.50 per person (children aged 6 and under are free).
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