Moving to P4
Available as a PDF download in original format
Getting Support
Since its formation in 1976, the Scalefour Society has grown to a membership of over 1800
worldwide. The Society caters primarily for the needs of railway modellers working to the scale
of 4mm to the foot (1:76.2), the most popular of the British model railway scales. However, it
promotes and encourages the use of modelling techniques and fine scale standards irrespective
of scale or gauge, and has many Members who model to standards other than P4.
Although there is particular emphasis on the use of scale wheels and track, the aim of the Society
is to encourage realism and authenticity in all aspects of the hobby; here are some of the ways
in which help and support are provided to Members.
Scalefour News is the Society's flagship journal which all members receive five times each year. This is a high quality colour magazine packed full of news, reviews and illustrated articles covering all aspects of the hobby, and has items of interest and inspiration for modellers of all gauges and standards.
Mmebers enjoy further discussion, guidance and inspiration via the Scalefour
Webforum at www.scalefour.org/forum/
The Society also promotes three major exhibitions each year. Scaleforum,
held in Leatherhead on the last weekend in September is the biggest; Scalefour
North is usually in the spring, in Wakefield; Scalefour South West is
held during the summer as part of the RailWells exhibition. All the shows feature
high-quality P4 layouts, modelling demonstrations, and other attractions and are
well supported by trade stands.
All new members receive a copy of the Digest Sheets that cover many topics
of interest and assistance to modellers. The subject matter ranges from planning
to photography and includes comprehensive guidance on track construction and
springing and compensation systems. The series is currently undergoing a complete
overhaul and new sheets are in preparation.
The Society has its own shop for members - the Scalefour Stores -
which attends Society exhibitions and provides an excellent mail order service. Our
philosophy is to supply the essential items for P4 modellers, but without competing with the retail suppliers. The Stores also supply
the products that the Society has sponsored; the latest addition to the range is high quality conductor rail supports for third and
fourth rail electrification schemes, which complement the existing correct profile conductor rail and end ramps.
There is an extensive network of 46 Area Groups around the UK and six overseas.
These are widely varied groups of Members, whose activities range from building and
exhibiting layouts to informal social gatherings. Participation in an Area Group can be
very beneficial as there will usually be other Members who can give help and guidance
in developing the many skills that railway modelling fosters. There is also a lively
internet discussion group for members where problems and ideas are discussed and
useful tips provided. The Society is introducing modelling workshops - Scalefour
Workbenches - where members can be introduced to basic techniques and
benefit from the pragmatic guidance and experience of other members. The emphasis
will be on practical work, using only
the basic, essential tools.
The Society publishes books too. The latest, shown on the left, is devoted to the Alex Jackson coupling. The AJ is small, the AJ is pretty well invisible, and the
AJ works in a mysterious way. This book tells the AJ story and is the ultimate guide
on how to use the jigs or do it yourself. £6.00 plus £1.50 p&p from booksellers
or the Scalefour Stores .
Our very comprehensive website www.scalefour.org is well worth a visit
for inspiring photographs, plus lots of useful information and links.
Visitors are always welcome at www.scalefour.org where you can find
a Membership application form. Of course we are always happy to deal with
questions by post, and the addresses are:
General Secretary:
Mike Ainsworth, 8 Rivers Road, Teynham, Sittingbourne, Kent ME9 9TD
Membership Secretary:
Danny Cockling, 187 Painswick Road, Gloucester GL4 4AG Tel:0031 621 541 945
