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| Founded in 1948 by a small group of
enthusiasts, the Chichester & District Society of Model Engineers has grown
through the past fifty-five years into a well supported organisation covering a
variety of members interests. |
| The aims of the Society are simple: to bring
together all persons who are interested in the construction and, or working of
models, and to provide a well equipped workshop for the purpose of lectures and
instruction for the improvement of the individual craftsmanship of its members. |
| To encourage these activities the Society
provides excellent facilities at its headquarters. In the Society’s grounds of
one acre there are three railway tracks for model locomotives. Behind the main
building is a small elevated track for the gauge one and gauge o’ sections of
the Society while the other elevated track of 560ft is of dual gauge for 5in and
3½in gauge locomotives. Around the perimeter of the site there is 735ft. of
ground level dual gauge 7¼in - 10¼in track. |
| The passenger carrying tracks are controlled
by a fully automatic electronic signalling system that can also activate level
crossing barriers situated across the main entrance. Both tracks are served by
stations with platforms and there is vehicular access to the steaming bay
facilities. |
| The large clubhouse has comfortable lounge
accommodation, fully equipped kitchen, washing and toilet facilities and a very
well equipped large workshop. The workshop is vital to the encouragement of
model engineering in view of the initial cost of machinery. The machinery
includes an 8½in centre Harrison lathe, a 4½in centre Alpine lathe, a large
vertical mill, engraving machine and surface grinder. Casting work is also
undertaken with foundries for aluminium, brass/bronze and cast iron. Members
also benefit from the wealth of knowledge given by the older members (including
precision engineers) making this interchange of advice a vital part of the
Society’s function. |
| Although the steam locomotive is the interest
of the majority of the members, the Society also caters for all forms of models,
including, petrol hydraulic locos, battery powered locos, traction engines,
clocks and watches, stationary engines and specialist tools. |
| For the last few years we have been open for
public running from 2p.m. - 5p.m. on the last Sunday of the months April to
September inclusive. Rides on both the raised and ground level
tracks are charged at a modest 50p for two circuits. |
| Anyone interested in model engineering, who
would like to join the company of others who enjoy a similar hobby, is warmly
invited to come to the headquarters, view the facilities, and seriously consider
becoming a member of the Chichester Model Engineers. Membership is open to
anyone over the age of 14 years and an application form can be obtained on
request to the duty key holder. |
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