More thana thousand people travelled some as far as Canada to visit one of the country’s largest model shows in Bolton.
Traders and modellers set up a wide variety of stalls with traders and modellers showcasing models of aircraft, armour, cars, ships, famous film and sci-fi characters, World War II replica’s and more, including 3D printing.
The Bolton International Plastic Modellers’ Society (IPMS) model show also had special guests from the 99th Garrison, a group of North West based Star Wars re-enactors who raise money for a number of national charities.
It brings together model clubs, traders, and enthusiasts from all over the country.
This is the first show at the University of Bolton Stadium since Covid.
Modeller and organiser of the event, David Swift said: “We were a bit nervous to begin with because we weren’t sure how it would be received.
“We thought some people might have stopped completely, and with the fuel prices and cost of living we weren’t sure what the outcome would be.
“But we are absolutely delighted with the fact the interest is still there and that some people are still doing their hobby.
“I like that there is a community that have a shared interest in making models too.”
As a modeller David says he enjoys the whole process of making models and showing them off to people, whilst taking inspiration when he is at the shows.
He added: “I have an interest in aviation and it’s nice to be able to build replicas.
“One that I have made is the Jet Provost which I have previously flown in.”
The show featured models built by groups and clubs which were supplemented by traders selling models, paints, and tools.
Dan Dankmeyer travelled from Canada to show some of his model cars off after falling in love with the hobby when he was about 12-years-old.
And with his daughter living in Leicester for 12 years, he wanted to visit the show whilst seeing her.
After a friend told him about the show, he couldn’t resist as a fan and as a modeller.
He said: “I try to hit model shows when I can because I build models in Canada.
“You can build what you can’t have because it’s so expensive in reality.
“My brothers did it, and I got into it and never stopped.
“Everybody is so welcoming and I think it’s incredible.
“This is a whole new world for me.”
Dan said that there is one in Hamilton, west of Toronto and this show is just as big.
One of the organisers of the 99th Garrison Jim Davis came in full force with his storm troopers and of course Darth Vader to support the show.
He said: “We usually collect for charity apart from today.
“We came together for the event.
“It’s a little bit of fun and works well with some of the models that are here.”
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