Redbridge families are invited to an exhibition celebrating model trains and railway heritage this weekend.

The Ilford and West Essex Model Railway Club (IWEMRC) is holding its annual exhibition in Romford.

The two day event will showcase members’ trains and layouts, as well as hosting displays from other clubs.

There will be stalls selling modelling equipment and books on the hobby and railway heritage.

IMEMRC is thought to be the fourth-oldest model railway club in the world and will be celebrating its 82nd year at the exhibition.

It was founded in Ilford in 1930 when a group of modelling-enthusiasts were brought together.

Member Tony Spencer said the hobby “lasts a lifetime”.

He added: “I started modelling when I was seven and my dad bought me a table-top train.

“We’re not having kids joining like we used to because they’ve got their phones and games but it’s such a great hobby.

“You have to have so many talents and at the club we put ours together.

“I used to be an artist so I do all the painting and scenery and someone else makes the tracks and others build the kits.”

IWEMRC has its headquarters next to Chadwell Heath railway station with a club house, models, library and grounds complete with passenger-carrying miniature railway.

Monthly open days between April and September offer people the chance to ride on the miniature steam train and learn about the hobby.

Mr Spencer said proceeds from the exhibition will be used to help fix the much-loved locomotive after its boiler broke.

The exhibition will run from 10am on Saturday and Sunday at St Edwards School, London Road, Romford.

Entry is �5 for adults, �4 for seniors, �3 for children and �13 for a family ticket.

New members are welcome at the club. Visit www.iwemrc.org.uk for information.