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This page was last updated on 07/09/10

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Queslett (OO Gauge)

This is the second layout built on a commission basis for Virgin Trains.  The requirements were that it provided a continuous run on which full length models of their red & silver trains could be displayed.  Suburban multiple units would be run and these would, where possible, reflect the area in which the layout was being displayed.  Additionally a container depot and loco stabling was included to vary the interest offered to the viewing public. Colour light signals are used throughout, mostly automatic.  The layout is freestanding, built on 1.5m * .9m boards, with a central operating area.  The overall size is 6m * 3.3m The scenic portion is protected by polycarbonate sheets to allow the visitor to get close to the action.  

Unlike Yardlea, the first Virgin layout built by the club, this layout is not based on any particular location.  The decision to have the local and main line services on two separate circuits has removed some of the train length constraints that Yardlea presented.  There is a high level station, with pedestrian access from the main street below.

The main line does not have a station.  At one corner a small representation of a container depot has been provided.  Access is via a loop line off the clockwise track.  On the other side of the running lines a small diesel depot provides servicing for the freight locos operating the container trains.  Below is a schematic of the track layout relative to the container depot and the loco yard, the container depot being on the outside of the layout.

The local lines are fed by a fiddle yard that has capacity for three multiple units, of the 170 variety, in each direction, whilst the main line fiddle yard has 6 full length roads in each direction.

When our relationship with Virgin was brought to a close, the layout passed into our ownership.  This gave us the opportunity to tweak how it is run.  It was converted to DCC using the Digitrax system, but has since had the system changed.  At our 2009 show it was run as at the end of steam, with appropriate steam and diesel locos, whilst the container became a set of holding sidings for steam locos awaiting the cutters torch.