A FAMILY of model railway enthusiasts are hoping to pick up some more steam by recruiting fellow fanatics to their cause.

The Simmonds family from Accrington are keeping up a long association with railways stretching back three generations.

Grandad Stewart Simmonds, a former leading railwayman at Accrington Station, has swapped the hustle and bustle of the platform for the peace and quiet of his spare bedroom where he now tends to his own model trains.

Mr Simmonds son, Darrell, a former DJ, has traded the bright lights of the disco for the red and green lights of his miniature signal box as chief modeller of the 24 A railway group.

And Darrell's sons, Nicky and Scott, have abandoned their Toy Story toys for Thomas The Tank engines.

Darrell, 37, said: "We're looking for more members to join us because we only have six at present.

"We're not big kids playing with toys because model making is a real craft requiring lots of dedication and acute attention to detail.

"We're also honouring some of the finest pieces of mechanical engineering ever made."

Named after Accrington's station's old engine shed, the 24 A group have been meeting every week at a local mill since October where they have created a 36 by 14 feet replica of Yorkshire's Marsden station.

If you would like to join the group call Darrell on 01254 231859.

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