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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Newportnobby on September 22, 2018, 08:53:44 PM

Title: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on September 22, 2018, 08:53:44 PM
Starts Channel 5 Friday 5th October.
Is this going to be a serious programme or portray us as weirdos with long/no hair and beards with this mornings breakfast in them playing trains (OK - we all play trains and I can't answer for the other bit)?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Dorsetmike on September 22, 2018, 09:16:45 PM
Paul Tyer of Peedie models is on the "Track laying Ninjas" team  according to his website, not sure which episode.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on September 22, 2018, 09:30:36 PM
Quote from: Dorsetmike on September 22, 2018, 09:16:45 PM
Paul Tyer of Peedie models is on the "Track laying Ninjas" team  according to his website, not sure which episode.

"Track laying Ninjas" ???
Already sounds like the prog is dumbed down. Presumably there'll be "Team Sparky" and a "Fat Controller" in there somewhere ::)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Paul-H on September 22, 2018, 09:33:56 PM
weirdos with long/no hair and beards

Don't forget the lack of personal hygiene so typical at the average train show ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Ted on September 22, 2018, 09:58:12 PM
There's no excuse for poor hygiene, should be hosed down before entry!

Anyway, I'll take a look at this show... hopefuly it's not cringeworthy.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Dorsetmike on September 22, 2018, 10:03:46 PM
From Googling there are 10 teams, 2 per episode plus a final episode. They start with a 10x5 baseboard, can't find much more detail. A few mentions of team names on model forums.

Has anybody watched Channel 5 on computer, not having a TV that will be my only option.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: weave on September 22, 2018, 10:10:18 PM
Hi,

Sounds interesting. Googled a bit of it. Looks like it starts 28th September.....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DGPFrZP-5U (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DGPFrZP-5U)

Thanks for the heads up.

Cheers weave  :beers:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: mickeyflinn on September 22, 2018, 10:44:26 PM
Looks like NPN might be right with the airing dates;
https://peco-uk.com/blogs/news/great-model-railway-challenge (https://peco-uk.com/blogs/news/great-model-railway-challenge)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Dorsetmike on September 22, 2018, 10:45:19 PM
original schedule was 28sept, but now rescheduled to October 5th
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on September 22, 2018, 10:50:52 PM
There's a piece in the September issue of RM about it. Steve Flint is one of the judges.

Seems a bit lightweight for my taste. But I don't watch the likes of Masterchef and the Bachelor either.....
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on September 23, 2018, 08:45:44 AM
Quote from: Dorsetmike on September 22, 2018, 10:45:19 PM
original schedule was 28sept, but now rescheduled to October 5th

Another model railway release date slips ::) :D
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Ali Smith on September 23, 2018, 08:47:15 AM
I doubt if they will deliberately hold us up to ridicule, my concern is that it seems to be some kind of competition, a race even. This is not what our hobby is about. If I wanted a competitive pastime I'd take up a sport and get some much needed exercise into the bargain.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on September 23, 2018, 09:07:33 AM
Quote from: Ali Smith on September 23, 2018, 08:47:15 AM
I doubt if they will deliberately hold us up to ridicule

I'm quite sure the intention is not there but the problem with these types of programme is if they are not presented in a careful and serious manner then the general viewing public makes assumptions and, let's face it, to a certain extent we're typecast anyway, as are the chaps currently re-creating WW2 air battles on TV using radio controlled models. :hmmm:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: kirky on September 23, 2018, 09:09:47 AM
Quote from: Ali Smith on September 23, 2018, 08:47:15 AM
I doubt if they will deliberately hold us up to ridicule, my concern is that it seems to be some kind of competition, a race even. This is not what our hobby is about. If I wanted a competitive pastime I'd take up a sport and get some much needed exercise into the bargain.
I agree entirely. Its what I like about the hobby too - its far more about co-operation than it is about competition. Whats the point of making it competetive? Seems to me to be entirely superficial. Still, I'll be watching it as I watched that stupid Dick Drawbridge programme, and the James May one and the Garden Railways (Mark Found) thing that was on a sky channel ... I could go on. Actually I think the most useful model railway programme (broadcast TV) I've ever seen has been Bob Symes Model World from the 70's(?) which is available on youtube.
Just my 2p.

Kirky
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Paul-H on September 23, 2018, 09:29:56 AM
Can't remember it's name now, but there was thst stupid one were they built IIRC a model railway that was claimed to be at the Bluebell railway, which included a secret nuclear reactor and a murdering Doctor, (Train Town) or something like that,  quite an awful program, with an equally awful presenter, on par with the awful Mark Found.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on September 23, 2018, 09:37:26 AM
I took offense to the comment page in the September issue of RM, by some guy who's a railway historian and apparently on the TV a lot in the UK.

He admitted to not being a railway modeller, but ended with the sage advice of maybe modellers should build a landscape and run the railways through it!  :doh:

Isn't that we do?  >:(
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on September 23, 2018, 09:43:31 AM
Sadly not in my case, George :no:
I designed a track plan that gives me exactly what I want to see and operate and now have to try to make it look as if the scenery was there first :-[
I may not be alone :uneasy:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: kirky on September 23, 2018, 09:43:42 AM
Quote from: Paul-H on September 23, 2018, 09:29:56 AM
Can't remember it's name now, but there was thst stupid one were they built IIRC a model railway that was claimed to be at the Bluebell railway, which included a secret nuclear reactor and a murdering Doctor, (Train Town) or something like that,  quite an awful program, with an equally awful presenter, on par with the awful Mark Found.
Was it 'model town'?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on September 23, 2018, 09:47:21 AM
Quote from: Newportnobby on September 23, 2018, 09:43:31 AM
Sadly not in my case, George :no:
I designed a track plan that gives me exactly what I want to see and operate and now have to try to make it look as if the scenery was there first :-[
I may not be alone :uneasy:

Well that's right. However I think most of us manage it. There's not much point to building scenery then ripping it up to put track through it!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Paul-H on September 23, 2018, 10:01:52 AM

Was it 'model town'?
[/quote]

That's one
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: bridgiesimon on September 23, 2018, 10:10:13 AM
Quote from: Newportnobby on September 22, 2018, 08:53:44 PM
Starts Channel 5 Friday 5th October.
Is this going to be a serious programme or portray us as weirdos with long/no hair and beards with this mornings breakfast in them playing trains (OK - we all play trains and I can't answer for the other bit)?

er, what is wrong with having long hair and a beard?

And yes I do regularly what Breakfast tv while getting ready for work!

Not sure I like your insinuations there!

Simon
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on September 23, 2018, 10:23:11 AM
Here in Australia, I'm not sure we'll see it, but there's probably a way.

I'm thinking maybe we watch the first episode and then  start making comments?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest373 on September 23, 2018, 10:58:55 AM
Reply to Dorsetmike
I do not have a TV either, I watch Channel 5 on my laptop, when there is anything worth watching.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: ScottishModeller on September 23, 2018, 02:08:00 PM
Hi all,

If you don't know about it - what is the basis for your comments besmirching the idea/concept/execution of this program.

If you didn't take part - which applies to the majority on here - what right have you to make any comment at all before viewing it?

My response to all of you who have reacted in this way is to tell you to shut up and wait until the program is aired.

At least then you will have something to base any comments on.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: bridgiesimon on September 23, 2018, 02:13:48 PM
Well said, I for one (sure there are many more) am really looking forward to it!!

Best wishes
Simon
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: acko22 on September 23, 2018, 02:55:13 PM
Err do i or Don't i watch it.......

Not sure I remember the last one they did (can't remember what it was called) across Scotland anyway.

The modelers doing it were a mixture which you cant really argue with there were some who were annoying (one of the team leaders I would happily have told to go away even if not as polite on day one) and there were people I would have happily mix with.

But the bloke presenting it what a  :censored: he was a patronizing and condescending  :censored: I would happily have put that train up is rear facing tunnel while still steaming!

So do I watch this one.... i will maybe give it a go but if it's similar to the last one then i will swiftly change channel!
So here is hoping!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Dorsetmike on September 23, 2018, 04:27:58 PM
Paul Tyer of Peedie models is in show 2
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: javlinfaw7 on September 23, 2018, 05:29:04 PM
Is that Lieutenant Colonel Dick Strawbridge you are referring to?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Philip. on September 23, 2018, 05:45:58 PM
The fact it's on Channel 5 tells you all you need to know  :sleep: :nerner: :D
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: acko22 on September 23, 2018, 05:48:12 PM
Quote from: javlinfaw7 on September 23, 2018, 05:29:04 PM
Is that Lieutenant Colonel Dick Strawbridge you are referring to?

Yep thats the chap!! Amazing how close his name is to my description of him!!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: ScottishModeller on September 23, 2018, 05:57:32 PM
Hi all,

Lets get one fact correctly put in place.

The Great Model Railway Competition is not produced by the same team or company that did The Great Glen Model Railway Challenge.

Some of the people taking part in this one may be some of those who took part in that challenge.

Thanks

Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Dorsetmike on September 23, 2018, 06:02:24 PM
Quote from: Philip. on September 23, 2018, 05:45:58 PM
The fact it's on Channel 5 tells you all you need to know  :sleep: :nerner: :D

Problem is if it were on a more popular/main stream channel it would be at some outlandish time when you're either at work or in bed and it would be dumbed down so that it counts as entertainment such that Joe and Jolene public might even watch it
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Railwaygun on September 25, 2018, 06:50:08 AM
https://peco-uk.com/blogs/news/get-ready-for-the-great-model-railway-challenge

Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on September 25, 2018, 06:54:12 AM
Good ads!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Skyline2uk on September 25, 2018, 08:14:32 AM
If I remember, I will give this a go.

I hope it is better at portraying the hobby than some programs have been, more like James May's programs than the Greatest Little Railway. Whilst the latter had its good points, it was undoubtedly hindered by the need to hype / create suspense where there isn't any.

What I really hope is that it isn't cast in the same mold as "Railways Live!" (or similar). The problem with that show can be summed up with the "!" in the title. The use of a "!", to suggest that it's "wild, crazy, funky, unpredictable fun" immediately puts my teeth on edge, and the spectacle of the presenter (already mentioned on this thread) getting all excited and animated about a bog-standard class 66 that happened to be near him Live(!) was too much.

This hobby is, as they say, a "broad church" and has nuanced preferences. Whilst some people do like the humble shed, others can't stand the things.

Therein lies the conundrum for shows about railways and model railways; you have to be top level enough to pull in the casual viewer and yet detailed enough to interest the actual members of the hobby without being specific enough to be dull for them as well!

Skyline2uk
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Ted on September 25, 2018, 08:22:21 AM
I can't tell if they were all hosed down, but the advert looks 'fun' without being cringeworthy - which is promising indeed. 👍
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on September 25, 2018, 08:25:36 AM
That's what I thought. Looks like a bit of laugh without making me cringe.

I guess we'll see! (Not that I'm going to see it where I live)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: NGS-PO on September 25, 2018, 12:24:53 PM
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Calnefoxile on September 25, 2018, 01:01:20 PM

Looking at the adverts, it seems to be being done in the same way as the Lego Masters prgramme on Channel 4 was done last year. I thoroughly enjoyed that and thought it was brilliant, the end results were fascinating, and I'm looking forward to this programme as well.

Cheers

Neal.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: acko22 on September 25, 2018, 06:24:10 PM
Quote from: ScottishModeller on September 23, 2018, 05:57:32 PM
Hi all,

Lets get one fact correctly put in place.

The Great Model Railway Competition is not produced by the same team or company that did The Great Glen Model Railway Challenge.

Some of the people taking part in this one may be some of those who took part in that challenge.

Thanks

I am glad it isn't the same it's not done by the same production company, the way the show came across well I didn't appreciate the way it was done. So hopefully it is different and actually if its produced anything like Paddington 24/7 then it will be well worth a watch.

As to the people taking part some of the same people may do and if it is then fair play to them hope they had fun making the show(s), I just thought that the previous mentioned show had a habit of concentrating on characters rather than the mixture of people.
And yes some of them who may be on this show may be some of the same people including ones who wouldn't be on my drinking buddies list, but like is every part of society there is an eclectic mix of people who are interested in model railways and long may it exists.

The adverts actually seem very tongue in cheeky and I do hope aspects of the show are like that!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Pjlons83 on September 26, 2018, 11:06:39 AM
Quote from: Ali Smith on September 23, 2018, 08:47:15 AM
I doubt if they will deliberately hold us up to ridicule, my concern is that it seems to be some kind of competition, a race even. This is not what our hobby is about. If I wanted a competitive pastime I'd take up a sport and get some much needed exercise into the bargain.

They even have shot-clocks in indoor bowls now..... I think the time/stress/deadline element just adds to the viewer experience. Maybe I should have a timer and a deadline - that way I might actually finsh a project  :help:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on September 26, 2018, 11:19:34 AM
Like I say, Good ads.

Just wait and see how it pans out, I guess.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Pjlons83 on September 26, 2018, 11:31:24 AM
I only seen the advert for it last night which prompted me to find this thread for more info. I'm looking forward to it. FWIW I enjoyed the Dick Strawbridge show too.  8)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on October 05, 2018, 08:59:17 PM
Just watched this.  Some good modelling, but I'm exhausted by the frenetic pace and presentation.

I thought Railway modelling was a relaxing pastime?

Oh well, a bit of fun I suppose.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Dorsetmike on October 05, 2018, 09:16:06 PM
£ teams of what 5 or 6 with 3 days to build a layout, they're allowed to pre build up to 6 items, one team pushed their luck a bit and the judges warned them their idea of 6 prebuilds was not the same as the judges, 5 separate long rows of terrace houses  is not 1 item, they also had the station prebuilt also a dock scene with warehouses and  2 boats and a large back scene. I won't say who won in case some are watching it later.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: austinbob on October 05, 2018, 10:14:20 PM
Very disappointing. No real modelling content and very superficial. Designed for general public and not enthusiasts. Won't bother to watch the  next one. ☹
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: RailGooner on October 05, 2018, 10:25:13 PM
Thanks Bob! I don't feel so bad about missing it now. :beers:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: talisman56 on October 05, 2018, 10:32:17 PM
Watched the programme through to the end, along with SWMBO, who made no disparaging comment, so one plus point there.

Thought the little side challange was a little unneccessary, but the team that won that made the best of it.

I'm smugly pleased that the team that tried to bend the rules got found out and were judged on the work done during the actual challenge, rather than all their assembled modules. The best team won in the end.

I'm still interested, roll on next week.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Ali Smith on October 05, 2018, 10:32:52 PM
I wasn't disappointed but only because my expectations were very low. Managed to stick it for all of 10 minutes. Luckily we had programme about the Pennsylvania Station in New York recorded so we still got some railway based telly in.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Claude Dreyfus on October 05, 2018, 10:57:49 PM
I was approached by the producers for this back in February (in my capacity as our club secretary). We did think about it, and we certainly have a few members who are skilled and inventive enough to have done well on this, but ultimately we were concerned how we, and modellers in general, would be portrayed. Some production companies cannot help themselves but to make you out to be weird, or domineering etc. It was a polite thanks, but no thanks.

I hope this does not happen, and I wish the teams well. I may try to catch at least one, but inconveniently it is on club night! Of course, if it is a success, than that can only be a good thing for the hobby.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: honestjudge on October 05, 2018, 11:36:52 PM
I am probably bucking the trend here, but I thought it was quite well done.

Despite the fear that many 'enthusiasts' have that they will be made to look silly,  TV exposure of this kind of television will always reach a huge audience and I feel that is never a bad thing.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Ditape on October 06, 2018, 12:20:10 AM
It was a poorly presented program that with better production values had the potential to be very good, as you can probably guess I was not impressed but I will watch the series in the vain hope things get better. :( :thumbsdown:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: weave on October 06, 2018, 12:33:51 AM
Hi,

Just seen it on catch up TV. It was watchable but I wonder if that was only to see if the cocky 'breaking the rules' guy got his comeuppance in the end.

Won't tell.

Anyway, have recorded the series so will give it another go.

Cheers weave  :beers:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: silly moo on October 06, 2018, 08:01:02 AM
I thought it was a bit rough around the edges and not very well filmed and edited but it interested me enough to ensure I watch the next episode, even if it's just out of curiosity.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: port perran on October 06, 2018, 08:12:03 AM
I thought it was watchable.
I enjoyed it and , like Weave, was pleased that the cocky guy finished up having to go home.
It was a bit messy but hey, it's low budget TV so you gets what you get.
I'll watch the rest.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: paulprice on October 06, 2018, 08:35:22 AM
Well that's an hour of my life I wont get back.

Did nothing in my eyes to change the general perception of the public that we modellers are all weirdo's who need to get a life. In fact act several points I was shouting "weirdo" at the TV.

Will not be watching this dross again, a great opportunity wasted  :veryangry:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: kirky on October 06, 2018, 08:48:27 AM
I watched it last night when it aired live and decided I would watch it again this morning - it was that or Cbeebies.
IMHO the concept is contrived. I don't believe modelling is about competition; its far more about co-operation if you are in a club and involved in a club project, and if you model by yourself, its usually for the pleasure of being creative. I cant think of any modeller I know who is in the hobby to win! Additionally, I keep thinking how many times I've read articles or had advice from fellow modellers who almost always say 'take your time'. The hobby is definitely not about trying to complete something in three days. Its a 'slow-burner' hobby.
I thought the concept of the Missenden modellers model was excellent and the scenics looked impressive. They also had the only model with more than one train running at the same time, at least in the footage shown. To criticise it for not being finished was very harsh I thought. I can think of many great models that have sections under develpment yet still are considered exhibition standard.

All that said, I enjoyed it , after all it was about model trains! And of course I'll be watching the entire series.

cheers
Kirky
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 06, 2018, 09:03:07 AM
The show certainly seems to have generated various opinions amongst forum members!

I'll wait until it comes out on video here in Australia and then I'll ignore it.  :D  ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: port perran on October 06, 2018, 09:12:19 AM
Quote from: Bealman on October 06, 2018, 09:03:07 AM
The show certainly seems to have generated various opinions amongst forum members!

I'll wait until it comes out on video here in Australia and then I'll ignore it.  :D  ;)
To quote the old saying, "Football is a game of opinions".
Now that railway modelling has become "competitive", I guess we can apply the same adage  :D
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 06, 2018, 09:16:57 AM
 :laughabovepost: :laughabovepost:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Yet_Another on October 06, 2018, 09:24:04 AM
It's yet another 'quirky hobby' reality TV show, and as such, thrives on atypical characters that the audience can love or hate. It's nothing to do with promoting the hobby (beyond the sponsor's product placement): it's about audience and advertising revenue.

As a program, it was ok, but not particularly engaging. I went out to do the dad's taxi run five minutes before the end, which probably is all I need to say.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bob Tidbury on October 06, 2018, 09:34:18 AM
I watched it last night on catchup after Val had gone to bed , a bit disappointed ,it seems that every program on our hobby makes us out to be real wierdos and to be honest the standard of modelling done on screen was not that good ,Missenden Modelers idea of perspective was really good but they spoilt it by NOT building things there and cheated by bringing in far too many pre built items ,
I have been to the late Bill Mcallpines place at Fawley near Henley on Thames where this was filmed it's an amazing museum unfortunately only open by appointment ,you should see that little tank loo struggling up the hill with two wagons fitted with seats  ,when it rains it has to be pulled up by a bulldozer.
As usual I could go on rambling but I won't this time .
Bob Tidbury
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: trkilliman on October 06, 2018, 09:53:39 AM
It is said that railway modelling is a broad Church, taking in many levels of skill, ideas and aspiration. Some comments on this and other forums indicate that people enjoyed it. For me it was a let down, and it appears more felt the same as me than those that thought it was good. The hobby has a long standing perception of being full of "Anoraks" as does trainspotting. I think producers play up to this believing it will widen appeal. For me it was like Bake off, a few tantrums and terse moments built in/produced. If you enjoyed it then great, although I didn't.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: tutenkhamunsleeping on October 06, 2018, 09:55:05 AM
I bailed at the first commercial break, I'm afraid. The program just reinforces the old stereotype that everyone involved in a TV production company is an incompetent, clueless, weirdo ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: silly moo on October 06, 2018, 09:59:26 AM
I get the feeling that it would improve if given a lot more programmes and further series, it's very much an experiment at this stage for both the modellers and producers. Whether they get the chance to produce further series will no doubt depend on the popularity of these first few programmes.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Fardap on October 06, 2018, 10:11:02 AM
I think that it would be interesting to know how the non modeller viewed it.  Haven't seen it yet will certainly give it a look. 
Someone said modelling is teamwork and not competition but I disagree. This apparently shows teams modelling together and then being judged against other teams is no different to exhibitions and layouts being awarded best in show etc. 
Anything that potentially brings the hobby to a wider audience is a good thing for the manufacturers and then a good thing for the rest of us.

I will watch it and will watch other episodes as don't like to judge something on one viewing. Looking forward to it and either sighing, shouting or being amazed.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Trev on October 06, 2018, 10:25:58 AM
Quote from: austinbob on October 05, 2018, 10:14:20 PM
Very disappointing. No real modelling content and very superficial. Designed for general public and not enthusiasts. Won't bother to watch the  next one. ☹

Certainly, agree and am I the only one who thought that the scripting of the presenters and the overall approach was, in many ways, a direct copy of the style used on Bake Off. Even down to the presenters sitting around a table to discuss who is in trouble.

Luckily I recorded so was able to fast forward some of the very dull bits.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Buffin on October 06, 2018, 10:45:55 AM
I was disappointed by them being set a 'theme', presumably designed to hook casual viewers who might not be interested in railway modelling itself, and I agree that there was too much talking and not enough modelling. The scratch build challenge was presumably 'modelled' on the Bake Off technical challenge.

I thought the programme was skilfully edited to incite the audience against the rule benders, who to be fair produced a layout with some good features, even if they were 'planted' on the day.

The presenters were very good. Of the judges, Kathy is a TV natural. Steve isn't.

They've designed the series for popular appeal, but I imagine they won't commission another one if it doesn't get good viewing figures. Some people here evidently wouldn't care about that. Don't you want to attract people to the hobby, by whatever means?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 06, 2018, 10:51:44 AM
I'm all for getting folks into the hobby, but unfortunately, from reading here, it's going to be a one off.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: ntpntpntp on October 06, 2018, 11:07:33 AM
Forgot it was on, found it on +1 by accident.   I didn't really like the style at all (predictable/naff jokes, staged conflicts, ridiculous "challenge"  etc.).  I missed parts of it as I was nodding off anyway, will try to find it on a catch up and see the whole thing but don't think I'm going to like it as a program.  That being said I'll probably still try and catch the further episodes as it is ostensibly featuring a hobby I enjoy.

[edit]
OK, just watched it through properly on My5.  Bottom line for me is if it didn't feature model railways I wouldn't have bothered with it at all, I hate the format.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: javlinfaw7 on October 06, 2018, 01:40:20 PM
Please don't let them do a "celebrity" version
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: littlegs on October 06, 2018, 01:50:47 PM
Watched it last night,
3 groups including one from my local area(Porthcawl). Hard luck Alan and the boys.
Not a bad watch.
The teams had 3 days to complete a layout based on a theme. Last night's was based on movies.
I was so glad that the rather smug team leader from Missenden got what he deserved by trying to bend the rules concerning prebuilt items (they were allowed 6) by trying to say that 4 modules of terraces houses(80 houses in total) were one.
I think the judges counted at least 10 pre built items!!!. Well done to them for sticking to the rules and (without actually saying it) disqualifying them.  He was convinced that his team were not only going to win the heat but also the complete competition.
Last night's heat was won by a team called Strangers On A Train( They had never met before the competition) with a layout called The Longest Day depicting the lead up to D Day. and it looked really good considering the lack of time they had.
Cant wait til next friday
regards Chris
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on October 06, 2018, 03:12:35 PM
For me, the jury is still out. I found it immediately to be a bit 'tricksy' i.e. I don't like this thing about modelling old films (next week is TV programmes. Is someone going to do the tram crash from Corrie?) but there were some little nuggets of good modelling. Shame the aliens beamed me up after just 10 minutes and then plonked me back down 20 minutes later so I probably missed the best bits (?) I could do without some idiot pinching their nose and announcing how much time was left, too.
I guess the most telling thing would be to hear Steve Flint's honest opinion of the show as it struck me he was there to give it some gravitas but really he looked like a fish out of water for much of it.
I'll give it time.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: ntpntpntp on October 06, 2018, 03:39:25 PM
Quote from: littlegs on October 06, 2018, 01:50:47 PM
Watched it last night,
3 groups including one from my local area(Porthcawl)...

... and now you've completely given the game away for anyone still waiting to watch the episode on catch-up . ho-hum!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Tank on October 06, 2018, 03:57:06 PM
I missed the first 20 minutes, but I enjoyed the rest of it.  My wife even said that she enjoyed it, and loved to scream "CHEATERS!" at one of the teams! ;D  Perhaps this added to me enjoying the program more?!!?  In any case, I am looking forward to the next one.

I am amazed at how many members on here and on the Facebook group don't like it one bit!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: acook on October 06, 2018, 04:21:14 PM
Quote from: javlinfaw7 on October 06, 2018, 01:40:20 PM
Please don't let them do a "celebrity" version

Hang on, Rod Stewart vs Mick Jagger vs Neil Young, I'd buy a telly for that!

I think Mick is the Stone with the trains?

Alan (waiting for the soundtrack album from that show)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: weave on October 06, 2018, 05:12:00 PM
Eddie Izzard hosting,

Sounds like a right laugh. Think you might have something there.

:beers:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: kirky on October 06, 2018, 05:53:09 PM
Surely Jools Holland should host it?
Kirky
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Papyrus on October 06, 2018, 06:05:11 PM
Quote from: ntpntpntp on October 06, 2018, 03:39:25 PM
Quote from: littlegs on October 06, 2018, 01:50:47 PM
Watched it last night,
3 groups including one from my local area(Porthcawl)...

... and now you've completely given the game away for anyone still waiting to watch the episode on catch-up . ho-hum!

Hmm, yes! But it's my own silly fault for reading this thread before watching last night's recording!

As opinions are so divided I'll give it a go, although I dislike all the contrived competition programmes - Bake Off, I'm a Celebrity, Strictly and the rest. The main question seems to be - does it do anything to improve the general public's negative view of railway enthusiasts?

Cheers,

Chris
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 06, 2018, 06:08:54 PM
missed it last night [SWMBO had the remote] but watched it on my5 this morning.

basically, thought it was AWFULL.
had the chance to really promote the hobby, show how different teams did things, and show how many skills can be learnt / input into a layout...

but you ended up, IMHO, with a load of tat.

so many chances lost, but I have to watch heat 3 as my mate's club has a team in it, I'd never hear the end of it if I missed it.

very glad the cheaters got cut down, even after being given the chance to limit their rule breaking they chose to continue, then claimed they 'ran out of time'  :veryangry:
bit like someone turning up at a cooking show with a ready made item. if I was the chairman of that club I would not be happy at how they were portrayed.

great effort by the actual heat winners, but really just another so called reality tv show with no content.

certainly wouldn't encourage me to look into railway modelling, if I was not already bitten, too many years ago, by the bug.

to those who disagree, my apologies, but those are my views, warts and all.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: MalcolmInN on October 06, 2018, 07:36:35 PM
It made a change to all those cooking progs !

As for the multiplicity of pre-built units - - it could be argued that it is difficult to demonstrate forced perspective with just one or two houses, thus the several rows could be deemed one unit for that porpoise, could it not ?

Wot me play devil's advocate, shirly not !!

Yep, it is I, back after an unexpected hospitalisation :-( keeping fongers xxed.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on October 06, 2018, 07:49:44 PM
Quote from: Lindi on October 06, 2018, 07:37:57 PM
Quote from: kirky on October 06, 2018, 05:53:09 PM
Surely Jools Holland should host it?
Kirky

But how could he join in on his piano?

Oh I'm sure he could squeeze something in. ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: stevewalker on October 06, 2018, 10:06:28 PM
Quote from: javlinfaw7 on October 06, 2018, 01:40:20 PM
Please don't let them do a "celebrity" version

Oh I don't know - Pete Waterman, Rod Stewart, etc.?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Pjlons83 on October 06, 2018, 10:08:58 PM
I personally thought it was OK.... but only OK. I'm sure I'll watch the rest of the series but as others have said I think I was more disappointed that there was not much actual "modelling" shown.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on October 06, 2018, 10:10:44 PM
Quote from: stevewalker on October 06, 2018, 10:06:28 PM
Quote from: javlinfaw7 on October 06, 2018, 01:40:20 PM
Please don't let them do a "celebrity" version

Oh I don't know - Pete Waterman, Rod Stewart, etc.?

If Pete Waterman's music is anything to go by it could certainly be amusing :P ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: silly moo on October 06, 2018, 10:32:42 PM
I think Pjlons83 has hit the nail on the head, it would have been a lot better if a bit more actual modelling was shown. How were the baseboards built? How was the track laid? If I compare it with James May's Toy Stories they managed to be informative and showed people interacting.

I'll still watch the next few episodes just to see if they improve or not.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 06, 2018, 11:24:23 PM
much better clips on youtube, even if they are often in that Orible Other scale, showing actually how to do things.

in last night's episode, for someone who was looking to possibly get into railway modelling, in any scale, ...
why was someone hitting track with a hammer ?
why was someone else dumping stuff on trackwork ?
what was that funny white stuff with zig-zag cutouts in it ?
what is plaster bandage ?

guess they would have been even more baffled by the end of the program that at the beginning. certainly nothing to draw them into the hobby.

Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Chris Morris on October 07, 2018, 06:24:32 AM
Quote from: silly moo on October 06, 2018, 10:32:42 PM
I think Pjlons83 has hit the nail on the head, it would have been a lot better if a bit more actual modelling was shown. How were the baseboards built? How was the track laid? If I compare it with James May's Toy Stories they managed to be informative and showed people interacting.

I'll still watch the next few episodes just to see if they improve or not.
But thats not what these programmes do. You don't see much of techniques in either Bake off or Sewing Bee.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: littlegs on October 07, 2018, 09:22:59 AM
Quote from: MalcolmAL on October 06, 2018, 07:36:35 PM
It made a change to all those cooking progs !

As for the multiplicity of pre-built units - - it could be argued that it is difficult to demonstrate forced perspective with just one or two houses, thus the several rows could be deemed one unit for that porpoise, could it not ?

Wot me play devil's advocate, shirly not !!

Yep, it is I, back after an unexpected hospitalisation :-( keeping fongers xxed.
Malc,
Don't try to defend them .
They chose to cheat and got caught.
Fair enough if the 3 or 4 rows of houses had been built as one unit . Then it could have been called 1 pre build.
As the judges said "the pre built units were very good but the modelling actually done during the three days was shabby" . And to say they didn't have enough time is a very lame excuse, after all the layout was 3/4 complete BEFORE they arrived at the competition !!
Regards Chris
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 07, 2018, 10:14:10 AM
well, as expected I received a reply from my mate to my comments I'd e-mailed him on the program....

found your comments on the TV program less than helpful given the amount of effort expended by each team.   We were VERY happy to see Missenden put out and the heat winner was worthy.    But the producers have brought the hobby to the attention of the wider public and no doubt they will be reading the feedback and changing the format if it gets a second series.

what effort - we saw very little of the modelling.
brought the hobby to the attention of the wider public - great, a load of cheats got caught, and you can get a couple of mates round and build a model railway in a couple of days [are you getting my best side on camera ?]

I DO NOT WISH TO IMPLY THAT MOST OF THE TEAMS DID NOT WORK THEIR HEARTS OUT TO CONTRIBUTE TO A PROGRAM ABOUT MODEL RAILWAYS, but to my mind, as usual, the production company then sold them out to produce 'good tv, which in my humble opinion, it wasn't.

with less concentration on the presenters, much more could have been put across about actually modelling...

DC versus DCC, how to lay and ballast track etc, I'm sure we could all keep adding to the list.

my fear is that this, like so many of these programs, trivializes the subject to allow 'personalities' to produce a program, and as such puts more people off than it inspires.

how many train sets were bought at the weekend to produce a train layout for little Johnnie, and how many will be binned when dad finds he can't build a layout over the weekend like he thought he could ?

based on the first episode, three teams spent three days building their layouts, ie 9 days work.
by the time you have taken out the adverts, this is represented by 45 minutes of film, the vast majority of which is either clips of the steam train, going over what has been shown previously, or the presenters or judges prattling on.
oh, some odd bits of someone doing something on a layout, but not much info on what / why / how !

can't help but remember the programs by, IIRC, Bob Symes [apologies if I got the name wrong] who knew his subject, was enthusiastic about it, and INFORMATIVE.

so, from me, a score of 'nil points' for this series so far, and a profound hope that it does NOT damage our hobby.

Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 07, 2018, 10:47:47 AM
An obvious big no there! Capitals mean shouting!  ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: MalcolmInN on October 07, 2018, 11:17:57 AM
Quote from: littlegs on October 07, 2018, 09:22:59 AM
Malc,
Don't try to defend them .
They chose to cheat and got caught.
Hi Chris, no indeed, that was not my intention and I agree with you. They got their come-uppence !

Just thought I'd have a bit of fun with "it could be", if or no it 'should be' argued is another matter !!!  and anyway he/they were too full of themselves to suggest that as an excuse.

The good guys won :-)

All I need to do now is to find out how to download it off My5 and replay slo-mo to take it all in without all that feverish subliminal shot changing, does the director not know how to hold a shot ! ?


Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 07, 2018, 11:33:00 AM
Quote from: Bealman on October 07, 2018, 10:47:47 AM
An obvious big no there! Capitals mean shouting!  ;)

got that, hence the use of capitals to EMPHASISE  :smiley-laughing:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 07, 2018, 11:36:37 AM
Quote from: Chris Morris on October 07, 2018, 06:24:32 AM
Quote from: silly moo on October 06, 2018, 10:32:42 PM
I think Pjlons83 has hit the nail on the head, it would have been a lot better if a bit more actual modelling was shown. How were the baseboards built? How was the track laid? If I compare it with James May's Toy Stories they managed to be informative and showed people interacting.

I'll still watch the next few episodes just to see if they improve or not.
But thats not what these programmes do. You don't see much of techniques in either Bake off or Sewing Bee.

but why does it have to be bake off or sewing bee ?
why not a decent, informative, program about model railways ?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: zwilnik on October 07, 2018, 11:52:52 AM
Quote from: class37025 on October 07, 2018, 11:36:37 AM
Quote from: Chris Morris on October 07, 2018, 06:24:32 AM
Quote from: silly moo on October 06, 2018, 10:32:42 PM
I think Pjlons83 has hit the nail on the head, it would have been a lot better if a bit more actual modelling was shown. How were the baseboards built? How was the track laid? If I compare it with James May's Toy Stories they managed to be informative and showed people interacting.

I'll still watch the next few episodes just to see if they improve or not.
But thats not what these programmes do. You don't see much of techniques in either Bake off or Sewing Bee.

but why does it have to be bake off or sewing bee ?
why not a decent, informative, program about model railways ?

Because TV (especially commercial TV) is for entertainment, not information. When you're going for the maximum number of viewers to keep for the ad breaks (or other show sponsors) you have to keep it at the lowest common denominator for the audience you're going to grab. I suspect for most of these shows, 90%+ of the actual viewers will never actually take part in the hobby at a level where they'd actually benefit from serious tips and information on the show, so it's scripted as something fun to watch instead.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 07, 2018, 12:28:18 PM
off topic, but while rubbishing this program, thoroughly enjoyed the one on walking the Plymouth - Exeter line via Oakhampton that followed it.

much info, a guy who was interested, and .......

I'd never realised that rice pudding was made in the can  :dunce:
always imagined vats of rice pud being used to fill the cans, silly boy  :-[
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: silly moo on October 07, 2018, 01:29:40 PM
Unfortunately Zwilink is undoubtedly right about the formulation of the programme, it is designed to entertain not inform. With that in mind I'm think the Missenden modellers might have been set up and edited to come across as the 'baddies' to make for a more entertaining programme.

There were probably shots of the other teams saying they were sure they were going to win that were never used.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 07, 2018, 01:37:02 PM
perhaps the best advice for anyone considering getting involved with this type of program is

don't

you'll get screwed to produce the required edits for 'entertainment'

rumours of some new programs to come out in the autumn..

strictly come shunting

trains off

shunting bee

>:D
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Papyrus on October 07, 2018, 02:52:52 PM
Well, I did manage to watch (half) of it last night - add me to the list of those who thought it was an opportunity wasted. The main reason I switched off halfway through was the egotist from Missenden, who does not represent the hobby in my view. The team who had never met before seemed to bond really well and worked well together, but they didn't seem to get quite as much of the limelight. Such a disappointment when it could have been so much better.

Cheers,

Chris
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: zwilnik on October 07, 2018, 02:57:46 PM
Quote from: silly moo on October 07, 2018, 01:29:40 PM
Unfortunately Zwilink is undoubtedly right about the formulation of the programme, it is designed to entertain not inform. With that in mind I'm think the Missenden modellers might have been set up and edited to come across as the 'baddies' to make for a more entertaining programme.

There were probably shots of the other teams saying they were sure they were going to win that were never used.

I dunno, I've been to model railway clubs that had a very similar attitude of "we're professional layout builders" and the main focus of the club is to build layouts to earn funds from shows rather than actually enjoy modelling and helping other members learn.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 07, 2018, 03:00:34 PM
Quote from: Zwilnik on October 07, 2018, 02:57:46 PM
Quote from: silly moo on October 07, 2018, 01:29:40 PM
Unfortunately Zwilink is undoubtedly right about the formulation of the programme, it is designed to entertain not inform. With that in mind I'm think the Missenden modellers might have been set up and edited to come across as the 'baddies' to make for a more entertaining programme.

There were probably shots of the other teams saying they were sure they were going to win that were never used.

I dunno, I've been to model railway clubs that had a very similar attitude of "we're professional layout builders" and the main focus of the club is to build layouts to earn funds from shows rather than actually enjoy modelling and helping other members learn.

I wonder if that is why so many of us have sheds ?

also, SWMBO permitting, you can model when you want, rather than to a timetable.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: woodbury22uk on October 07, 2018, 03:24:14 PM
I must have had my "glass half full" hat on when I watched this.

One big positive was the cohesiveness of the teams. Most of us may be lone modellers, I don't know, but seeing people working towards a common goal against the clock and putting together a working model railway with scenic effects in 3 working days sends a worthwhile message. The animations were intended to be fun and are the sorts of things which attract younger children to press buttons on permanent exhibition layouts.

A few folk across social media have ridiculed the scratchbuild challenge, but I really liked the touch of "Blue Peter" it brought to the programme. So creativity of the model railway pastime was another positive.

I have to admit to being amazed that some people thought that the programme was going to be "how to" guide. Or that they were going to learn something about detailed modelling from the presentation.

People uninitiated in modelling railways hopefully have a more positive reaction to what they viewed and if they kept watching through the advertisement breaks then the broadcaster met their goal.

Just as a side note, the reactions on one Facebook Group seem to include a lot of people who feared the programme was ammunition for their "mates" to ridicule them. It did not come over to me like that, and fortunately I don't have mates like that. But if I did, I think I would challenge them to build a detailed one foot square diorama in say two weeks. They choose whatever they want as their subject - Marilyn Monroe over a subway grating,
their favourite celebrity being handcuffed and escorted into a police station, or
a room full of keyboard warriors.

Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 07, 2018, 03:39:43 PM
I was
[1] amazed at how well the 'strangers on a model train' team worked together
and
[2] really pleased to see their hard work payed off with a win.
[3] felt really sorry for the Porthcawl team who also worked so hard, but just got [IMHO] pipped to the post.

two teams really 5 star,
one team should be ashamed

production team should be .....
as no doubt our posts are monitored by GCHQ, I'll leave it to you to fill in the dots.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: bridgiesimon on October 07, 2018, 03:58:18 PM
Not sure about the themes chosen, maybe sometbing around ' here is a small childs room, build them a train set' could have worked better.
Simon
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on October 07, 2018, 04:57:46 PM
Quote from: class37025 on October 07, 2018, 01:37:02 PM
rumours of some new programs to come out in the autumn..

strictly come shunting


A purely entertainment programme for the whole family which will be a popularity contest until the last 6 left shunting. Expect masses of people screeching like primates and gurning at the camera as they think it's funny to do so
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Chris Morris on October 07, 2018, 05:14:34 PM
Quote from: class37025 on October 07, 2018, 01:37:02 PM
perhaps the best advice for anyone considering getting involved with this type of program is

don't

you'll get screwed to produce the required edits for 'entertainment'

rumours of some new programs to come out in the autumn..

strictly come shunting

trains off

shunting bee

>:D
I take the opposite view. The programme was fun. I couldn't take part this year but would happily take part if another series happens.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Pjlons83 on October 07, 2018, 06:56:49 PM
I don't think that "we" (as the folk that already pursue the hobby) are the intended audience. I get the point about the sewing bee, bake off etc... I have watched those shows and enjoyed them; I really enjoyed the pottery throw down even though I have no idea or inclination to turn a pot.

I can imagine that anybody curious about the hobby or just happen to stumble across the show might see the finish articles and think "wow - that would look awesome in the spare room!" And then proceed to find the various forums, YouTube channels, suppliers etc. All said and done I think it's good for the hobby.

Others have mentioned the James May stuff. That only works because it's james May. Any random bloke pointlessly piecing a lawnmower back together I'm sure wouldn't get good reviews. That's just how TV land works. Good look to all involved.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: paulprice on October 07, 2018, 07:05:16 PM
I thought it was a terrible television program, that was until the Domestic Overlord put the new Doctor Who on, what a load of TOSH
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Steve Brassett on October 07, 2018, 07:39:41 PM
Love the new Doctor Who, where the baddie is Tim Shaw.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: acko22 on October 07, 2018, 09:13:06 PM
Right then where to start........

I thought on the whole it was an OK program and nothing more. The format certainly something to match Bake Off although in my eyes that isn't what modelling is about!

The whole idea of the scratch build challenge erm..... yeah a good idea but the items chosen well in the whole not all of us own a spare pair of heels or lipsticks (although for a fee I will wear both  :laugh3: ) so I thought that was a little stupid and would have rather seen more conventional items, unless I am missing something and should nick my better halves bras for hills on my layout.

But that been said what the guys did with them was good so full plaudits for that especially using the shavings a coal dust!

The idea of having themes maybe not what we would generally use for our own layouts but its is all about how you read into it so the guy from Porthcrawl went more literal with it where as the other teams used it more as a guide which is fair enough.

The Missenden Modelers by no stretch of the imagination took the  :censored: with the 6 prebuilt models rule, and I honestly didn't like their on screen attitude of we "ARE" going to win it, and in part of the show they stated that they run modelling classes, when you saw the finished product it was poor unless it was pre-built.
Maybe next time they will think about the reality before making grand statements of excellence and ability - but hand in hand with that to do truly amazing models it does take time (months not days).

As to the winning layout while basic (lets face it in 3 days you cant expect a perfect layout) it was actually really good and I say this as looking for cover from the face of it as good as some layouts I have seen at some exhibitions, with some TLC and detailing I think it could look very nice indeed if not prototypical.

So will I watch it again..... hmmm if I am not doing anything and its on yeah why not be interesting to see who wins the whole thing and how it plays out, if they are just tasked with building a proper highly detailed layout or just give 3 days to thrash it out. I truly hope that when it comes to the winners building the exhibition layout they actually let the modellers set the stall out and show the public what proper modelling looks like instead of what can we do as a quick slap it together job.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Timofpenk on October 07, 2018, 11:03:16 PM
Saw this the other night can't say it was really my cup of tea or beer for that matter would I watch it again? Maybe but it would really only be a morbid curiosity that made me a bit like opening a draw in a morgue
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: ScottishModeller on October 07, 2018, 11:34:23 PM
Hi all,

Now that you have had an opportunity to view the first episode. ....

Comments welcome!

What is exactly the reason for doing this challenge?

It isn't aimed at the already active modeller.

It's firmly aimed at getting more people involved - ie those who thought about doing a bit of railway modelling, but didn't.

Hopefully the series will give them enough enthusiasm to actually do something.

Thanks

ps - Just a shame that the short sightedness of the challenge meant that there wasn't any point in doing an N Gauge layout.

I say this as you could have had one in the heats, but would then have had to do an 00 one for the final.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: andymoore on October 08, 2018, 01:01:24 PM
I hunted this down on the C5 catchup thingy & then watched it with the sound off while SWMBO watched some drivel about a woman who's baby had apparently been kidnapped. I'm a lone modeller & have shied away from joining any clubs as I have always felt a little daunted by the experts that I have seen at shows. Well after watching this I'm glad I've carried on as a lone modeller !  I must admit to feeling quite inspired though, as they have set the bar so low that most people could reproduce something of equal, or better, quality than what these guys did. There seemed to be a lot of talking involved (not great when the sound is off). I was quite surprised to see that each of the railways was pretty much going round and round - no signals, no stopping and starting, just round and round.... In fact the actual railway side of it was minor - maybe some track laying, but nothing clever & this, I believe, is what would inspire people to try/return to the hobby. I'll continue watching - in fact I may even get myself some headphones and watch it again tonight, but the program with the Battle of Britain models (also watched with the sound off) looked a lot more interesting to me.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: honestjudge on October 08, 2018, 02:31:27 PM
Quote from: paulprice on October 06, 2018, 08:35:22 AM

This did nothing in my eyes to change the general perception of the public that we modellers are all weirdo's who need to get a life.


This general statement (and I am just using Pauls quote as an example) makes me smile as I believe all clubs, groups etc etc have their quota of weirdos. 

In my time, I have been  involved with two Model railway clubs, and two scalextric slot clubs. All have had weirdos as members. Over time, One of the scalex clubs featured in three TV productions. One was very well done, the other two were micky takes. The reason for the micky takes is that one of our weirdos could not keep away from the camera, and the producers of the program loved him for doing so, hence why the club was made to look silly.

Why am I saying this?     well the point I am making is that if you have a character, this will come out in a TV show like this.   The Missenden chap, love him or hate him, had a character and made it interesting, but no one in this first episode came over as weird. If you have sensible people in front of a camera, they will come over as ...sensible!

In my club of 12. There are two chaps that I would be wary of, if a newspaper or TV crew wanted to do an item on us. It would make an interesting article but I know it would make our club all look like weirdos. Maybe our hobby is over represented with weirdos, who knows?
I do like my weirdos, they are generally nice people but if you didn't know them you may think otherwise, I am sure you understand what I mean!
Generally, non model train people I know and who saw the show on Friday, like what they had seen and thought it was fun. This seems to bear out that this show was not aimed at the Model rail community.

Just my thoughts
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on October 08, 2018, 03:37:54 PM
We are now entering the Twilight Zone of just what constitutes the definition of "a weirdo".

After all, I doubt a weirdo considers themselves anything other than normal, though maybe a tad eccentric, different, or independent.

And in someone's eyes, each and everyone of us is weird in some way or another.

And sadly such is the lifeblood of so much TV today.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: GroupC on October 08, 2018, 03:39:04 PM
All this discussion brings to mind a saying one of my old University lecturers (film & TV) had, that being "the man in the street [or in this case the modelling punter putting himself / agreeing to be placed in front of the camera] is at the mercy of the man in the editing suite".

This meaning that without seeing everything in context, and not presented in an edited format, almost any person, good / bad / annoying / conceited etc. can be reconstructed to be almost anything else. I don't offer this in the defence or prosecution of anyone, whether programme maker, participant or whatever, just as a point of interest, and something to consider from all sides... for example the "never meet your heroes" adage on one side, the "what a plonker" on the other.

Having said that though the Missenden bloke did seem like a right one!! He clearly gave the crew more than enough rope for them to hang him with. Glad I haven't paid any money to go on one of their courses, I'd hate to have him as the trainer.

Overall in my opinion the programme was OK, nothing more, it's not a must see but if it's on at a convenient time I'll give it a go.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: d-a-n on October 08, 2018, 05:22:41 PM
All of the grumble, grumble moaning and groaning nearly put me off watching this... luckily I didn't and it turns out this show was a bit of light fun.

Regardless of who it's aimed at, it might shift a few more boxes of trains. This will keep the companies that supply us with lovely new things to covet in business; it might even mean that a new market is identified and a more diverse range of models is released... glass half full please folks - it's not all doom and gloom in Toyland. :laugh:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: GroupC on October 08, 2018, 07:39:46 PM
And another positive is that if you look at Kathy's online stuff, it'll blow you away and may improve your modelling. It's fantastic! I hadn't seen it before but now I have, I now feel:

(a) demoralised and inadequate

(b) inspired and hopeful

... depending on whether it's a glass half full or half empty day.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Nick on October 09, 2018, 11:43:47 AM
I've finally watched the recording, and I must admit to enjoying it.

More than few echoes of Masterchef and Bake-Off, but they are popular telly, so that's not a surprise. For once in these competition shows, I thought the right team won, and was delighted to see Missenden come an ignominious last. Their on-site modelling was below par to put it politely, and I thought that the only way to abuse the rules more would have been to build their layout beforehand on six interlocking baseboards, claim each one as a "pre-built item", assemble them together and put their feet up for the three days.

Over the weekend I was talking to one of the competitors on a later episode. He was exhibiting at our local exhibition. He said that the atmosphere at filming was great, it was a lot of fun to do, and, most notably, the producer had really done his homework on railway modelling and was keen. The guy I was speaking to had a Model Railway Challenge logo on his stand (he was exhibiting something else) and had spent Saturday surrounded by kids delighted to see the logo, because they'd watched the show and enjoyed it, and wanted to know how to start. Entertainment and hooking in kids to the hobby. That has to be good, doesn't it?

I didn't think it portrayed us as weirdos, just ordinary blokes enjoying themselves. But, let's be brutally frank, we're not exactly mainstream are we? Anyone who obsesses over the colour of a station door a hundred years ago, or when a particular loco wore a particular logo is only ever going to be an outlier on the bell curve of humanity.  :D

Full disclosure - I enjoyed the Battle of Britain aeromodelling show too. More modelling shows. What's not to like? It was entertainment after all. No mainstream channel is going to air an hour long documentary on static grass application and weathering techniques.

There's no such thing as bad publicity as I believe PT Barnum once said.


Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: The Q on October 09, 2018, 12:16:28 PM
Quote from: Nick on October 09, 2018, 11:43:47 AM


There's no such thing as bad publicity as I believe PT Barnum once said.
I believe VW sales went up after being caught cheating on emissions..
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: kirky on October 09, 2018, 12:43:46 PM
On another (members only) forum , the Missenden Abbey Railway courses organiser has posted to explain some facts. The team was a team of Missenden students, not tutors. They were there to show off their newly acquired modelling skills. They were attempting to build something to the 'Missenden standard'. There was an agreement between the team and the judges about what was acceptable but the judges did not seem to be aware of this.
The organiser is of the opinion that they were continually asked leading questions. There is even a suggestion that the producers encouraged the team to misunderstand the rules for the sake of good TV.

IMHO, the programme did not show the incredible hard work that the team had put in for the project, albeit before the challenge began. It is possible that the Missenden courses might suffer as a result. I should say I have no association with Missenden and I have not attended one of their courses, but I do feel they got a raw deal on the programme and that it would be unfair if the courses suffer as a result.

cheers
Kirky
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: silly moo on October 09, 2018, 02:27:03 PM
  As I mentioned in a previous post if you have some 'baddies' it makes for more interesting TV, the rather obnoxious man from Missenden may have been deliberately chosen and his comments given more air time just to make the programme more exciting.

The programme must have made some impact as we are all still talking about it  :D

:NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Dorsetmike on October 09, 2018, 03:14:08 PM
Don't forget, this weeks episode has one of the forum advertisers in one of the teams, Mr Peedie models, Paul Tyer.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: cudders on October 09, 2018, 07:44:20 PM
Hi chaps,

I have now seen it. Hmmmm,

Well I do like all things railways so that's a plus. The scratch build challenge is ok as is the general programme.

I have to say those miss' cheaters were really bad. So much pre-made. That bloke doing the Oscar' crying made the hobby look awful. So cringworthy. Hopefully no more of that!  :doh:

The right team won for sure.

Cudders

Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on October 10, 2018, 06:04:46 PM
I note that this week's episode  (Friday 8:00pm in the UK) will include a layout themed upon the popular "Eastenders" TV soap opera.
I wonder if we shall hear the judges utter the immortal words "What's going on?"  :hmmm:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=E1iMJNYHe1I

Another team has a cunning plan  ;) based on the Blackadder series, while the third team will be temporally involved with Dr Who.

I shall look forward to the fun. :)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Fardap on October 10, 2018, 07:22:02 PM
On C5 now as a repeat they are certainly giving it plenty of air time. 

The Missenden model was great, mainly the preprepared bits though, and from what I could see the on-site modelling was pretty low standard.

I thought it seemed clear, what was shown, that it was up to them if they planted all their prebuilt parts.  Maybe what wasn't clear was what the penalty would be if they did.
Best team won on the day.  Looking forward to seeing how the series develop
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: RailGooner on October 10, 2018, 07:59:54 PM
I've just watched the repeat too. I haven't felt belittled or ridiculed by it. In the intro modellers were described as 'Artists'. Rules were enforced - which is good in my book. The best team won.

Will I watch again? Yes, because it's entertaining.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Train Waiting on October 10, 2018, 09:01:07 PM
Mrs Train Waiting is out this evening, so Poppy and I were left in charge of the television set.

We settled down with wine and 'Dreamies'* to view this televisual feast that Mrs TW had recorded for us.

I thought that the programme was good (Poppy fell asleep... again).

It's 2018 television.  It's not the old television with Bob Symes or Peter Purves and the Blue Peter layout.

But the programme was fun and entertaining.

The presenters were good (first time I had seen either of them) and the judges were excellent.

Perhaps not a BAFTA winner, but I'll gladly watch the rest of the series.

And the scenes on the 'Ratty' were wonderful!

*I hope Poppy enjoyed the wine - I was not at all enamoured of the 'Dreamies'!

Toodle-oo.

John
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: port perran on October 10, 2018, 09:58:24 PM
Quote from: Train Waiting on October 10, 2018, 09:01:07 PM
Mrs Train Waiting is out this evening, so Poppy and I were left in charge of the television set.

We settled down with wine and 'Dreamies'* to view this televisual feast that Mrs TW had recorded for us.

I thought that the programme was good (Poppy fell asleep... again).

It's 2018 television.  It's not the old television with Bob Symes or Peter Purves and the Blue Peter layout.

But the programme was fun and entertaining.

The presenters were good (first time I had seen either of them) and the judges were excellent.

Perhaps not a BAFTA winner, but I'll gladly watch the rest of the series.

And the scenes on the 'Ratty' were wonderful!

*I hope Poppy enjoyed the wine - I was not at all enamoured of the 'Dreamies'!

Toodle-oo.

John
OK....I'll ask.....Dreamies?????
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: emjaybee on October 10, 2018, 10:01:20 PM
Keep up sunshine, they're cat treats, ask either of ours, they love 'em.

Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: The Q on October 11, 2018, 08:42:33 AM
Quote from: port perran on October 10, 2018, 09:58:24 PM
OK....I'll ask.....Dreamies?????
https://youtu.be/4PRB4mbNHWw
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: njee20 on October 11, 2018, 09:09:10 AM
Watched it last night. I enjoyed it.

My sole television experience was appearing on an episode of "The Weakest Link" with Anne Robinson nearly 10 years ago, and I can attest to the fact that vast swathes of editing goes on to make sure the producers get the desired outcome. In that instance the 'roast' from Anne was actually a 10 minute dialogue with each player, which was then edited to ensure that any witty retorts were removed and that you were shown in a light which made you look a bit silly - but I don't think anyone expected any less!

To that end, as Silly Moo says, I wouldn't be surprised if the Missenden team were purposely cast as the bad guys for the sake of entertainment. I'd be astounded if it had a negative impact on the courses, I imagine any impact will only be positive as they made a big thing of the fact the courses actually exist, which many (myself included) won't have known. I really can't imagine anyone thinking "well I was going to do one, but they cheated, so now I'm not".

I certainly didn't think it belittled or poked fun at the hobby or its participants in any way, and whilst it was certainly fairly high level I think it would be naive to expect anything less given the 'prime time' slot it occupied. I applaud them for not dumbing it down too much - there were people talking about DCC and what not without the need for an explanation for the uninitiated on what everything was.

My major criticisms would be that the theme is a little weak, and doing film one week and TV the next is a bit daft - surely they could have done "film & TV" as one and then had something more imaginative on the others. I also didn't like the scratch building challenge, seemed a bit contrived, but as others have observed it's just trying to introduce a consistent format with Bake Off/Sewing Bee etc, which again isn't surprising.

I'll certainly be watching all subsequent episodes, may even subject mrs njee20 to it for her verdict!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 11, 2018, 09:11:16 AM
This is becoming tiresome for a guy who lives away away.

Let me know how episode two is, though!!  :beers:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: njee20 on October 11, 2018, 09:16:06 AM
What about using this (https://www.tunnelbear.com/), which will enable you to pretend to be in the UK so you can watch this (http://www.channel5.com/show/the-great-model-railway-challenge/)?

I caught up with the F1 on Channel 4 from Sardinia last week. You only get a free allowance of a certain amount with Tunnelbear, so go for a lower quality stream, but it works for me. I'd do it on mobile/tablet to avoid you seeding from your computer, although I'm pretty sure they don't do that by default, and give you an extra allowance if you do.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on October 11, 2018, 10:28:11 AM
Quote from: njee20 on October 11, 2018, 09:16:06 AM

I caught up with the F1 on Channel 4 from Sardinia last week.

I never realised there was a circuit in Sardinia let alone a race being on the schedule :dunce: :-X
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 11, 2018, 10:33:12 AM
The link sent me to a cartoon bear?  :hmmm:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: njee20 on October 11, 2018, 10:37:07 AM
Quote from: Newportnobby on October 11, 2018, 10:28:11 AM
Quote from: njee20 on October 11, 2018, 09:16:06 AM

I caught up with the F1 on Channel 4 from Sardinia last week.

I never realised there was a circuit in Sardinia let alone a race being on the schedule :dunce: :-X

Where's that rolling eyes emoji!?! ;)

Quote from: Bealman on October 11, 2018, 10:33:12 AM
The link sent me to a cartoon bear?  :hmmm:

It's a VPN service which enables you to appear to be in a different country, ie the UK, so you can watch content only available in the UK, the second link being the online catch up of the Great Model Railway Challenge. I assume the second link alone doesn't work - may be worth trying...?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 11, 2018, 11:11:25 AM
I will,

It's late here in Oz And I'll probably not try it tonight.

Thank you!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on October 11, 2018, 11:35:02 AM
Quote from: njee20 on October 11, 2018, 10:37:07 AM
Quote from: Newportnobby on October 11, 2018, 10:28:11 AM
Quote from: njee20 on October 11, 2018, 09:16:06 AM

I caught up with the F1 on Channel 4 from Sardinia last week.

I never realised there was a circuit in Sardinia let alone a race being on the schedule :dunce: :-X

Where's that rolling eyes emoji!?! ;)


Where it's always been ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Drakken on October 11, 2018, 12:02:58 PM
I've tried to stay away from viewing the episodes until it's complete so I can watch them all in one sitting and see if the quality improves as some peoples first impressions of the episode it's hard to watch and some even turned it off or at the break. I'll wait and see it as one on one of my day's off :beers:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Fardap on October 11, 2018, 02:04:32 PM
Quote from: njee20 on October 11, 2018, 09:16:06 AM
What about using this (https://www.tunnelbear.com/), which will enable you to pretend to be in the UK so you can watch this (http://www.channel5.com/show/the-great-model-railway-challenge/)?

I caught up with the F1 on Channel 4 from Sardinia last week. You only get a free allowance of a certain amount with Tunnelbear, so go for a lower quality stream, but it works for me. I'd do it on mobile/tablet to avoid you seeding from your computer, although I'm pretty sure they don't do that by default, and give you an extra allowance if you do.

I used TB when I was living and working in France was the best thing for 'being in the UK' also if you are on twitter you can get extra allowance just by tweeting about them. Works really well simple and effective.

Now off to find that Sardinian round of the F1 I obviously missed...
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Lawrence on October 11, 2018, 04:42:59 PM
Whilst the show is 'entertainment' I don't think it is is particularly aimed at modellers, more to show a little of our world, perhaps give one or two of us some ideas and perhaps encourage more to join with us.
There are people different to ourselves in any walk of life, job or hobby so finding a comic, a blowhard or and introvert amongst such numbers shouldn't really surprise anyone.
Take it for what it is supposed to be, or don't, you have the remote  ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 11, 2018, 10:17:06 PM
I know from all the discussion it's generated, I'd love to see it!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: DarrwestLU6 on October 11, 2018, 11:58:29 PM
Quote from: Nick on October 09, 2018, 11:43:47 AM
The guy I was speaking to had a Model Railway Challenge logo on his stand (he was exhibiting something else) and had spent Saturday surrounded by kids delighted to see the logo, because they'd watched the show and enjoyed it, and wanted to know how to start. Entertainment and hooking in kids to the hobby. That has to be good, doesn't it?


Can't agree more!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Leon on October 12, 2018, 12:01:27 AM
Quote from: njee20 on October 11, 2018, 09:16:06 AM
What about using this (https://www.tunnelbear.com/), which will enable you to pretend to be in the UK so you can watch this (http://www.channel5.com/show/the-great-model-railway-challenge/)?

I downloaded and installed TunnelBear, but when I attempt to stream the program from channel5.com I get the message about having to be in the UK. I cleared my cookies, but that didn't change anything. Any suggestions?

Leon
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: njee20 on October 12, 2018, 06:31:33 AM
Sounds like Tunnel Bear isn't actually active - you'll need to make sure it's turned on and you've specified that you want to appear in the UK.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Fardap on October 12, 2018, 09:03:25 AM
Quote from: Leon on October 12, 2018, 12:01:27 AM
Quote from: njee20 on October 11, 2018, 09:16:06 AM
What about using this (https://www.tunnelbear.com/), which will enable you to pretend to be in the UK so you can watch this (http://www.channel5.com/show/the-great-model-railway-challenge/)?

I downloaded and installed TunnelBear, but when I attempt to stream the program from channel5.com I get the message about having to be in the UK. I cleared my cookies, but that didn't change anything. Any suggestions?

Leon

As njee20 stated you need to select United Kingdom in the drop down - I think it defaults to your home country so would show United States for you, change to UK and then turn on - then open the browser after turning on.

If you are on twitter you can click the tweet button and get a 1GB allowance should get you through the show!


Steve
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Chris Morris on October 12, 2018, 04:09:49 PM
I won't be able to see it until Sunday so no spoilers please.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Leon on October 12, 2018, 04:36:04 PM
Quote from: Fardap on October 12, 2018, 09:03:25 AM
Quote from: Leon on October 12, 2018, 12:01:27 AM
Quote from: njee20 on October 11, 2018, 09:16:06 AM
What about using this (https://www.tunnelbear.com/), which will enable you to pretend to be in the UK so you can watch this (http://www.channel5.com/show/the-great-model-railway-challenge/)?

I downloaded and installed TunnelBear, but when I attempt to stream the program from channel5.com I get the message about having to be in the UK. I cleared my cookies, but that didn't change anything. Any suggestions?

Leon

As njee20 stated you need to select United Kingdom in the drop down - I think it defaults to your home country so would show United States for you, change to UK and then turn on - then open the browser after turning on.

If you are on twitter you can click the tweet button and get a 1GB allowance should get you through the show!


Steve

Njee and Steve, I cleared my cookies, closed my browser, opened TunnelBear, confirmed that UK is the chosen country, opened Channel5.com, clicked on The Great Model Railway Challenge and got the same message - "We're sorry but you must be in the UK to view this content."

I think somebody has gotten wise and clever about blocking access.

Leon
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: njee20 on October 12, 2018, 05:35:40 PM
Nah, won't be that, Tunnel Bear should be fool proof, but I'm afraid I'm not sufficiently au fait with it to offer much help. I've always used the iOS app rather than the PC application. No need to keep clearing cookies or anything though - it's setting up a VPN to effectively connect you to another computer in the UK, so not browser related. I imagine it'll be somewhere in your system VPN settings.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Leon on October 12, 2018, 06:57:56 PM
Quote from: njee20 on October 12, 2018, 05:35:40 PM
Nah, won't be that, Tunnel Bear should be fool proof, but I'm afraid I'm not sufficiently au fait with it to offer much help. I've always used the iOS app rather than the PC application. No need to keep clearing cookies or anything though - it's setting up a VPN to effectively connect you to another computer in the UK, so not browser related. I imagine it'll be somewhere in your system VPN settings.

njee, thanks for the added information. My daughter has used TunnelBear for a long time, but she told me today that it stopped working for her, also. I'll try again another time and let you know if it ever works.

Leon
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: njee20 on October 12, 2018, 07:05:49 PM
How strange, could be something from your internet provider blocking it. Sorry it didn't work - hope you find another solution!

Nick
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Philip. on October 12, 2018, 09:07:10 PM
Much better this week I thought, some impressive modelling from all the teams.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 12, 2018, 09:55:00 PM
Quote from: Philip. on October 12, 2018, 09:07:10 PM
Much better this week I thought, some impressive modelling from all the teams.

thoroughly agree, much less tat, and three great layouts, overall very impressed, and if the Walford track had been better, it would have been a very difficult decision, but the best team won.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: kirky on October 12, 2018, 09:58:32 PM
Quote from: class37025 on October 12, 2018, 09:55:00 PM
Quote from: Philip. on October 12, 2018, 09:07:10 PM
Much better this week I thought, some impressive modelling from all the teams.

thoroughly agree, much less tat, and three great layouts, overall very impressed, and if the Walford track had been better, it would have been a very difficult decision, but the best team won.
Yep I agree, far far better this week. It was about modelling this week! And there was even some 9 mil track!!

Cheers
Kirky
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on October 12, 2018, 10:52:17 PM
Excellent programme this week. And the best team won.

Even the silly challenge was of interest.

And not so much "What's going on?" As "Woks going on?" ;)

This series is growing on me.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: bridgiesimon on October 12, 2018, 10:58:10 PM
as mentioned already, this show was much better tonight - slicker, better modelling and no arrogant plonkers! Really enjoyed it

Best wishes
Simon
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: talisman56 on October 12, 2018, 11:17:11 PM
As one of the few who thought better thoughts about last week's episode, even I thought this week's episode was an improvement. Viewership in the 'talisman household' increased by 50% this week, as No.1 daughter is an avid 'Whovian' so was very interested in all things Dalek and Cybermen that was going on...

Quite a close-run thing this week and the viewing public agreed with the final result by a score of 3-0. Roll on next week!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Ditape on October 12, 2018, 11:51:58 PM
This weeks show was a improvement on the first one, and again I think the right group won.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: fisherman on October 13, 2018, 04:22:08 PM
I actually  met  Callum @ The  Wells railway  show and  his  WW1 layout   was  abs  superb,  especially the painting of the soldiers !

Abs  magnificent..  WD  Youth!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Lawrence on October 13, 2018, 04:59:04 PM
First task has to be being able to efficiently run trains, only 2 teams managed that (despite team names!) but what the eventual winners managed in 3 days was absolutely excellent, I have not managed to achieve that in 3 years!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: lil chris on October 13, 2018, 06:30:05 PM
I watched yesterdays show on catch up today,  I was impressed with the winning model and they deserved to win. The so called track experts made the basic mistake of putting the two tracks too close to each other on the curves which is unforgivable, especially calling your selves experts lol. Overhaul I enjoyed watching the show, after the slagging of the first show, I may not bother watching that. Looking forward to next week and hoping that it improves even more. The walking show on after on the old railway lines looks good too, I need to watch that being a avid walker.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on October 13, 2018, 08:40:07 PM
A big improvement on the first one but still it's only raised itself to mediocre IMO. Some good modelling to be seen but some of the animations were pretty naff and to not lay track correctly on a national TV competition is nigh on unforgiveable :unimpressed:
All I can say is the better team won.
Just my opinion.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Railwaygun on October 13, 2018, 09:07:47 PM
The Eastenders layout had 3rd rail fitted, unlike the suburban Daleks!

Did I gather it was filmed at Farley Hill?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: GroupC on October 14, 2018, 09:19:47 AM
Annoyingly, after I'd rather surprisingly looked forward to watching the latest episode on catch-up, when I tried to do so the morning after it was on, I found that Channel 5 don't put their programmes up until after the second scheduled free-to-air broadcast.

Which means I have to wait a few more days. What a pain!

Why do they do this? It's not like you can skip the ads on catch-up, and it's included in viewing figures.

I'll still watch it tho. Haven't read this thread between then and now just in case there are spoilers.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bob Tidbury on October 14, 2018, 10:35:16 AM
This was filmed at the late Bill Mc Alpines private Museum at Fawley Court near Henley on Thames ,it's only open by invitation and I have been lucky to visit a few years ago it's an amazing place with parts of old stations and memorabilia every where ,every thing from railway buttons and furniture to a tank loco and coal wagons that give you rides up an incredibly steep hill past a signal into a real station rebuilt bit by bit ,there is even a set of old ploughing engines ,and models of all gauges .There is the whole of the old wooden booking hall from Henley on Thames station .
At the moment no one knows what will happen to the collection ,will the family open it up to the public or break it up and sell it off .
Bob Tidbury
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on October 14, 2018, 11:19:31 AM
Quote from: GroupC on October 14, 2018, 09:19:47 AM
Annoyingly, after I'd rather surprisingly looked forward to watching the latest episode on catch-up, when I tried to do so the morning after it was on, I found that Channel 5 don't put their programmes up until after the second scheduled free-to-air broadcast.

Which means I have to wait a few more days. What a pain!

Just for info for anyone like GroupC who missed the first showing, the next is at 19:00 on Wednesday 17th.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 14, 2018, 11:48:17 AM
Quote from: GroupC on October 14, 2018, 09:19:47 AM
Annoyingly, after I'd rather surprisingly looked forward to watching the latest episode on catch-up, when I tried to do so the morning after it was on, I found that Channel 5 don't put their programmes up until after the second scheduled free-to-air broadcast.

bit baffled about this as I got it friday evening about 22:00 and it played fine.

ps used My5, don't have an account which you seem to need for a lot of the programs.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Railwaygun on October 14, 2018, 12:18:46 PM
Quote from: Bob Tidbury on October 14, 2018, 10:35:16 AM
This was filmed at the late Bill Mc Alpines private Museum at Fawley Court near Henley on Thames ,it's only open by invitation and I have been lucky to visit a few years ago it's an amazing place with parts of old stations and memorabilia every where ,every thing from railway buttons and furniture to a tank loco and coal wagons that give you rides up an incredibly steep hill past a signal into a real station rebuilt bit by bit ,there is even a set of old ploughing engines ,and models of all gauges .There is the whole of the old wooden booking hall from Henley on Thames station .
At the moment no one knows what will happen to the collection ,will the family open it up to the public or break it up and sell it off .
Bob Tidbury


Hi Railwaygun

Thank you for your enquiry regarding a visit to the late Sir William McAlpine's Fawley Hill Railway and Museum near Henley-on-Thames.

Admission to Fawley VIP Days is by pre-booked invitations only. Owing to unprecedented interest in Fawley Hill, preference will be given to groups of 20+ such as Railway Clubs, History societies, Social clubs and charity organisation, etc. but if space is available we may be able to extend invitations to family groups and individuals.

However there may be 1 or 2 public open weekends in 2019 which will be open to all. 

Our Invitation Running days for 2018 have finished but unless you wish us not to retain your details we will add you to our e-mail list and forward dates for 2019 as soon as they are arranged.


Regards


Mark & Helen Hamlin

Fawley Museum Society Invitations Administrators

http://fawleyhill.co.uk (http://fawleyhill.co.uk)


Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on October 14, 2018, 12:27:40 PM
Form an orderly queue for the inaugural "2019 NGF Annual Group Outing"? :hmmm:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: GroupC on October 14, 2018, 01:30:19 PM
Quote from: class37025 on October 14, 2018, 11:48:17 AM
Quote from: GroupC on October 14, 2018, 09:19:47 AM
Annoyingly, after I'd rather surprisingly looked forward to watching the latest episode on catch-up, when I tried to do so the morning after it was on, I found that Channel 5 don't put their programmes up until after the second scheduled free-to-air broadcast.

bit baffled about this as I got it friday evening about 22:00 and it played fine.

ps used My5, don't have an account which you seem to need for a lot of the programs.

I was using my5 too. It definitely wasn't there as I tried searching in a few ways, on my5 and even trying a few general googles. This was at about 7am on the morning after the first showing. Oddly it's there now though. Perhaps they had to wait for the upload person to get into work and set it all going. Going to watch it soon.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: GroupC on October 14, 2018, 02:06:09 PM
Gave up on My5. Got about a third of the way through and it redirected itself back to the my5 homepage with no clicks from me. When I restarted it I couldn't skip to the point I'd got up to (and of course had to watch zillions of ads again).

Will wait until it's on telly. Haven't got space in my life for all this mucking about with online catch-ups.

The BBC can get it right with iplayer, why can't My5? Useless. Won't be using it again, back to the dvd recorder way. Can skip the ads that way too.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 14, 2018, 02:11:49 PM
have not had that problem with My5, although I have only used it so far to catch up on this series, but I found I could fast forward, or back, on the railway section, it was just the  :censored: adverts that you couldn't over-ride.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on October 14, 2018, 02:26:34 PM
Living in an area with poor standard connection speeds I am very familiar with catch-up channels dropping out or not displaying content. I therefore rely on the record and watch later process.
Could connection speed differences explain why we have members with such  good and bad experiences?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 14, 2018, 03:07:03 PM
could well be the answer.

supposedly I have fibre, at least that's what I pay for, but what comes in through the wall is good / bad old copper wire.

I'm with Plusnet, ie BT but with UK call centres.

hopefully, Virgin is shortly digging up the verges and installing their fibre, and I am given to understand that you actually get fibre to the house, not copper from a far distant cabinet.

guess we'll see in due course. :-\
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Fardap on October 14, 2018, 10:24:10 PM
I don't know if it is account related or anything but My5 on Samsung tv plays anything and just has a short pause where adverts should be then continues the show with no adverts to watch. 
It is on the catchup menu selection just pick Friday.  I guess any issues are maybe platform related and not MY5 specifically. 

Enjoyed this weeks show although I am getting increasingly irritated by the "Honky-Tonk" piano music.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Leon on October 14, 2018, 11:27:29 PM
Quote from: njee20 on October 12, 2018, 07:05:49 PM
How strange, could be something from your internet provider blocking it. Sorry it didn't work - hope you find another solution!

Nick

Nick, someone put it on youtube and I was able to see it there. Just have to view it immediately after it's posted, otherwise, it might be taken down. I'll view the second episode tomorrow if it has been downloaded to youtube.

Leon
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Railwaygun on October 14, 2018, 11:34:12 PM
Quote from: Railwaygun on October 14, 2018, 12:18:46 PM
Quote from: Bob Tidbury on October 14, 2018, 10:35:16 AM
This was filmed at the late Bill Mc Alpines private Museum at Fawley Court near Henley on Thames ,it's only open by invitation and I have been lucky to visit a few years ago it's an amazing place with parts of old stations and memorabilia every where ,every thing from railway buttons and furniture to a tank loco and coal wagons that give you rides up an incredibly steep hill past a signal into a real station rebuilt bit by bit ,there is even a set of old ploughing engines ,and models of all gauges .There is the whole of the old wooden booking hall from Henley on Thames station .
At the moment no one knows what will happen to the collection ,will the family open it up to the public or break it up and sell it off .
Bob Tidbury


Hi Railwaygun

Thank you for your enquiry regarding a visit to the late Sir William McAlpine's Fawley Hill Railway and Museum near Henley-on-Thames.

Admission to Fawley VIP Days is by pre-booked invitations only. Owing to unprecedented interest in Fawley Hill, preference will be given to groups of 20+ such as Railway Clubs, History societies, Social clubs and charity organisation, etc. but if space is available we may be able to extend invitations to family groups and individuals.

However there may be 1 or 2 public open weekends in 2019 which will be open to all. 

Our Invitation Running days for 2018 have finished but unless you wish us not to retain your details we will add you to our e-mail list and forward dates for 2019 as soon as they are arranged.


Regards


Mark & Helen Hamlin

Fawley Museum Society Invitations Administrators

http://fawleyhill.co.uk (http://fawleyhill.co.uk)

As, requested we have added you to our e-mail list.

Yes, the Great Model Railway Challenge was, indeed, filmed at Fawley Hill earlier this year.

The reason that Fawley Hill is not featured on railway maps or in railway museum and preservation guides is because it is a private museum belonging to the estate of  the late Sir William McAlpine that is not normally open to the public.

Regards

Mark & Helen

invitations@fawleymuseum.co.uk

====================================

So sign up now for next year - how about an NGF tour group??

We we should manage 20+ ??

I will post a separate thread



Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Philip. on October 20, 2018, 01:30:15 PM
A bit hit and miss for me last night and the Steampunks did nothing for me at all. The show seemed too rushed and didn't hold my attention like last weeks.

The right team won though, and by a country mile.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 20, 2018, 01:38:01 PM
Quote from: Philip. on October 20, 2018, 01:30:15 PM
A bit hit and miss for me last night and the Steampunks did nothing for me at all. The show seemed too rushed and didn't hold my attention like last weeks.

The right team won though, and by a country mile.

not just me then  :no:

my mate, and his team, had problems with their swing bridge, and I can't help but think they shot themselves in the foot with trying to make it 'work', rather than just have it as a scenic item, that let the trains run over it.

did note his 'wargames' missile patrol boat in the harbour, bought up in Portknockie too many years ago, and which has caused me problems in wargames many times since.
perhaps that sinking might have been a better idea  >:D
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on October 20, 2018, 01:51:07 PM
Quote from: Philip. on October 20, 2018, 01:30:15 PM
A bit hit and miss for me last night and the Steampunks did nothing for me at all. The show seemed too rushed and didn't hold my attention like last weeks.

The right team won though, and by a country mile.

Agreed.

The childish innuendos were not needed either.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Buffin on October 20, 2018, 01:53:48 PM
I hope these layouts will feature in local model railway exhibitions (maybe after they've been worked up a bit). Hopefully that might draw in people new to the hobby.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: RailGooner on October 20, 2018, 03:00:19 PM
Quote from: Philip. on October 20, 2018, 01:30:15 PM
A bit hit and miss for me last night and the Steampunks did nothing for me at all. The show seemed too rushed and didn't hold my attention like last weeks.

The right team won though, and by a country mile.

Yep, if this had been Episode 1, I probably wouldn't have made it beyond the 1st ad break.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on October 20, 2018, 05:00:13 PM
If the contestants can't be a little serious then are we meant to take this as anything but dumbed down? Why have a team where only one person (Laurie) is a railway modeller who has to tell/show how to do everything? The right team won but why have a name 'Basingstoke Bodgers'? I did like the 00/N lookalikes and thought the N ran better then the 00 :P I liked the Cleopatra's Needle and igloo made from the plunger, thought the bouncy castle made from the sponge was genius and admit to sniggering at 'Plungerbird 1' but I am really starting to wonder why I watch this programme.
Probably in the forlorn hope it will improve.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: silly moo on October 21, 2018, 11:56:15 AM
It seems as though all the teams spend quite a bit of time laying track and ballasting neither of which provide riveting watching.

Most of the time not much of this is shown. If I was in charge I'd give them their supplied baseboards and an extra pre programme day just for tracklaying.

Then the actual programme could show all the scenic aspects of the build. They might even finish to a reasonable standard.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bob Tidbury on October 21, 2018, 12:39:26 PM
I have to admit that after the first episode I nearly decided that was enough ,but In my opinion the third episode has got back to being more about Model railways and the Basingstoke team did have some reasonable scenery and the idea of the change of scale was a stroke of genius. as Newportnobby said why did they have another team that only had one person who had done any modelling ,to be honest I felt a bit sorry for Laurie as he had to first show someone what to do as well as try and do things himself and having seen one of his layouts at the Colchester show some of his things  although weird are rather clever.
Bob Tidbury
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: silly moo on October 22, 2018, 04:15:40 PM
Unfortunately a friend of mine had to be admitted to hospital on Saturday, I happened to mention to the ward sister that we were railway and model railway enthusiasts.

She said "Have you been watching that model railway programme on channel 5? My whole family love it"

Whatever we may say about it, it certainly seems to be a hit with the general public.

:NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Chris Morris on October 22, 2018, 05:53:52 PM
Every team every week have achieved a scenic working model railway in three days. That's good work. Some of the layouts have been very good indeed considering the time constraints. I was very impressed with the steampunk layout. Early on I thought it was going to be a complete disaster but it turned out to be interesting  and looked surprisingly good.
The great thing is that the progamme shows people being creative and having fun. Long may it continue - well I hope there will be a second series at least.
Visitors to exhibitions will of course be expecting to see animations if they have seen the programme. Maybe something those of us with exhibition layouts should think about.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Train Waiting on October 22, 2018, 06:37:17 PM
Quote from: Newportnobby on October 20, 2018, 05:00:13 PM
I did like the 00/N lookalikes and thought the N ran better then the 00 :P

I managed to get an hour with the television set and viewed episode three.  The '00' 'Castle' appeared to be running with its rear coupled wheels derailed (but that was maybe our telly!).  The 'N' gauge trains ran very well and it was splendid to see British 'N' gauge featured on the programme.

Quote from: silly moo on October 22, 2018, 04:15:40 PM
Whatever we may say about it, it certainly seems to be a hit with the general public.

Wonderful!  Exactly what we need.


The 'Steampunk' thing is a bit of a mystery to me, though.  I read the article in a recent Railway Modeller and then saw this programme.  The team reminded me of the people I saw on the NYMR when the 'Whitby Gothic Weekend' was on.  At least, if I decide to become a 'Steampunk' I already have the goggles (Stadium MkVIIIs).  The other Forum motor-bicyclists will probably laugh, but I prefer these to a visor.

Anyway, I'm pleased the programme is on and will continue watching.  Hopefully, there will be a second series.

John
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bob Tidbury on October 22, 2018, 08:26:08 PM
Train Waiting I thought that the back wheels were of the track as well so both our teles couldn't have a bad picture , I wonder how many other people noticed it but didn't bother to mention it.
Bob Tidbury
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on October 22, 2018, 09:41:58 PM
I, too, saw it cocking it's back leg as it went round the curve :D
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: The Q on October 23, 2018, 07:04:00 AM
There are several animations on the layouts at the https://wroxhamminiatureworlds.co.uk/ (https://wroxhamminiatureworlds.co.uk/) (which is in Hoveton Not Wroxham). I have several planned for my EM gauge layout but as yet had not thought of any for the N gauge Tiree layout other puffs of whisky flavoured smoke out of the distillery Chimney.

Steampunk  Laurie  put An interesting reply to his teams efforts here... http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index.php?/topic/138126-great-model-railway-challenge-channel-5/page-37 (http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index.php?/topic/138126-great-model-railway-challenge-channel-5/page-37)  ( post 906)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 23, 2018, 07:33:44 AM
The distillery chimney on my layout also puffs smoke, but is unfortunately Seuthe smoke oil flavoured  :(
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: 60156 Great Central on October 23, 2018, 03:33:23 PM
Main thing that I wondered was, how many of the Games Workshop figures count as a pre-build being a wargamer I know roughly how long those things take to build & paint!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Railwaygun on October 23, 2018, 03:41:52 PM
This is from the RMweb thread on this programme

I have seen all the moderated comments and out of 997, we are looking at just over 10. Those have included abuse in capital letters aimed at one of the teams (twice by one "contributor") followed by a threat to the admins, 3 repeats of one post and some for swearing.

The NGF is a haven of peace & tranquility by comparison!!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 23, 2018, 03:57:39 PM
Quote from: The Q on October 23, 2018, 07:04:00 AM
Steampunk  Laurie  put An interesting reply to his teams efforts here... http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index.php?/topic/138126-great-model-railway-challenge-channel-5/page-37 (http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index.php?/topic/138126-great-model-railway-challenge-channel-5/page-37)  ( post 906)

one interesting point  I picked up on was him being told he could not go end to end, but had to use the 10'x5', then being told that


"another team had made it end-to-end without asking and their pre-building on two baseboards with the track could not be undone, , my underlining and bold,.

surely, the rules should apply to ALL teams equally, in episode 1 we had the team who vastly exceeded their pre-build allowance, it will be interesting to see if any action is taken agains this team.

Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on October 23, 2018, 04:11:43 PM
I get the impression  ;) that with a lot of these programmes the producers have a remit to make sure there is a strong element of controversy.

After all, such is what gets folks talking about and maybe watching the programme in question. Certainly works judging by the comments generated here and t'other place.

As it is I rather expected bends in the rules and other tactics to be part and parcel of what is, it has to be remembered, intended to be an entertainment for any and everybody. Without such things a lot of viewers would switch channels.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Buffin on October 23, 2018, 10:58:28 PM
Quote from: Railwaygun on October 23, 2018, 03:41:52 PM
This is from the RMweb thread on this programme

I have seen all the moderated comments and out of 997, we are looking at just over 10. Those have included abuse in capital letters aimed at one of the teams (twice by one "contributor") followed by a threat to the admins, 3 repeats of one post and some for swearing.

The NGF is a haven of peace & tranquility by comparison!!


How can people get so wound up about a nice little relaxing programme, for goodness sake?!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: JonHarbour on October 23, 2018, 11:21:24 PM
I watched the first two episodes on YouTube last night and I have to admit I really enjoyed it. I did find the Dalek mother ship 'animation' in episode 2 a bit lame....

Maybe I'm just 'fishing' for some controversy! ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 23, 2018, 11:23:08 PM
boom - boom  :smiley-laughing:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 23, 2018, 11:24:28 PM
How'd you manage that, Jon? I've been trying to do the same, but with no luck!  :hmmm:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: JonHarbour on October 23, 2018, 11:29:17 PM
I just searched on Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=the+great+model+railway+challenge (https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=the+great+model+railway+challenge)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 23, 2018, 11:36:11 PM
Thanks, Jon! That link works a treat!  :beers:

The problem is, I was going to do a few jobs around the house for Mrs Bealman today....  :worried:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Phoenix on October 24, 2018, 12:15:48 AM
Hi Buffin,

First off, thank you so much for your kind comments about my recent video  :D :D

I dipped my toe into RMWeb when I first started my railway, and found them quite scary. Their reaction to what you say is "just another show on the telly" is quite mindboggling. I wonder if any of the guys there have actually put their opinions to the TV company, rather than ranting on RMWeb

Anyway, I just popped in here to say I met and chatted with the team leader of the Basingstoke Bodgers at our local model railway show last saturday and he was thoroughly nice to talk to, and totally praising his team members for all their hard work.

Kathy Millatt, awesome modeller and judge has an interesting blog, but obviously can't put much out 'till after the episodes have aired.

https://www.kathymillatt.co.uk/blog/2018/10/19/great-model-railway-challenge-globetrotting/ (https://www.kathymillatt.co.uk/blog/2018/10/19/great-model-railway-challenge-globetrotting/)

I'm lovin' it

all best wishes,
Kevin




Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 24, 2018, 12:39:40 AM
All this has really got me chomping at the bit to watch it!

Why did I open me gob and say I'd do all these jobs today  >:( ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: JonHarbour on October 24, 2018, 01:44:59 AM
Quote from: Bealman on October 23, 2018, 11:36:11 PM
Thanks, Jon! That link works a treat!  :beers:

The problem is, I was going to do a few jobs around the house for Mrs Bealman today....  :worried:

:laughabovepost:

Good luck! I'm working on a client site in Melbourne for a system go-live from 06:00 to 14:00 and thus have some time in the afternoon to myself - it's a 24x7 operation and I am supporting only one shift. Episode three this afternoon....  :claphappy:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 24, 2018, 02:03:47 AM
Good luck with the job  :thumbsup:

I'm currently vacuuming the house and am then going to fill in some gaps in the floorboards.

Hopefully I'll get to see the first episode at least tonight!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 24, 2018, 10:15:19 AM
I'm currently on my last beer at the club watching a horrendous show called Bachelorette.

If you get a show over there called Aussie Bachelorettte, avoid it like the plague!

I'm going to have me dinner and settle down to The Great Railway Challenge on YouTube,  courtesy of Jon.  :thumbsup: :beers:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 24, 2018, 12:13:29 PM
Ok, finally got to see the first episode.

Rather sad, but I will watch the series.

It's only TV, after all.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: The Q on October 24, 2018, 12:30:25 PM
Ranting about TV shows is common on other non railway forums, I belong to several Norfolk Broads forums, The TV and newspapers regularly get it wrong, especially when they Call the Norfolk Broads a National Park... it isn't...
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: 60156 Great Central on October 24, 2018, 01:03:19 PM
As an RM Web user  :uneasy: I will say that they aren't all bad but then I mainly exist in the Pre-Grouping section and have found them to be a great bunch if a little  :laugh3: in the best possible way  :beers:

I am looking forward to the next episode, despite thoughts about it, it's nice to have something that is actually railway related that isn't someone walking down a disused track saying how nice it is the trains have gone (There was a Julia Bradbury program to that effect a few years back)

Do we actually know if you are not allowed to use anything but OO in the heats? I know there was some 009 in Episode 2 but just a thought
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: The Q on October 24, 2018, 01:50:56 PM
it's reported elsewhere they were required to use OO as the main railway. The production company had at one time thought of connecting all the layouts together as one giant layout.. Also I believe the train had to be able to carry their camera
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: ScottishModeller on October 24, 2018, 02:54:56 PM
Quote from: The Q on October 24, 2018, 01:50:56 PM
it's reported elsewhere they were required to use OO as the main railway. The production company had at one time thought of connecting all the layouts together as one giant layout.. Also I believe the train had to be able to carry their camera
Hi there,

What you have said is almost correct....

If you entered you could use N Gauge for the model.

However, if you got to the final you had to have 00 as the finished models are meant to join up into a 'supersized' layout.

This is the one reason why there is no totally N gauge layout in the competition.

It would have meant building a totally new layout in 00 for the final.

I did think about something along the lines of the layout that has both 00 and N on it, but time was against it.

Thanks
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 24, 2018, 10:42:33 PM
Well, just watched episode 2 (8 am Aus time!) and quite enjoyed it. I quite liked the wok on the fishing rod!

I think the trick is not to take the show too seriously.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: JonHarbour on October 24, 2018, 11:07:06 PM
I suppose it was a Dalek  'Wok'et.   :doh: (I'll get my coat and hat now).
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 24, 2018, 11:08:18 PM
Good idea  ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Fardap on October 25, 2018, 04:50:20 PM
Press release from Bachmann about products used on the last show including the GF line.
Winners will be on their stand at Warley...

http://news.bachmann.co.uk/2018/10/bachmann-products-as-seen-on-screen/ (http://news.bachmann.co.uk/2018/10/bachmann-products-as-seen-on-screen/)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: joe cassidy on October 25, 2018, 05:58:38 PM
I got caught reading "Steam World" in the Air France lounge at Birmingham airport today, by one of the ladies who works there.

She mentioned that she really enjoys this program so it seems that it's a hit with ordinary folk whatever we may think  of it.

Best regards,


Joe
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 26, 2018, 06:01:47 AM
Just had a look at episode three, and agree with most of the comments on page 13.

Marginal TV at best.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: paulprice on October 26, 2018, 06:27:04 PM
Quote from: Bealman on October 26, 2018, 06:01:47 AM
Just had a look at episode three, and agree with most of the comments on page 13.

Marginal TV at best.

Is that rubbish still on the TV?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Lawrence on October 26, 2018, 07:22:22 PM
I believe one of our own is on tonight's episode  ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bob Tidbury on October 26, 2018, 08:43:32 PM
Come on Lawrence don't keep it a secret I won't be able to watch untill later tonight so I will look out for whoever.
Bob Tidbury
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Lawrence on October 26, 2018, 09:11:28 PM
Quote from: Bob Tidbury on October 26, 2018, 08:43:32 PM
Come on Lawrence don't keep it a secret I won't be able to watch untill later tonight so I will look out for whoever.
Bob Tidbury

It's a secret, but he does have a very wide centre parting and dapper specs a-dangling  ;)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 26, 2018, 09:49:04 PM
just watched on my5, and I must admit to being baffled at the result.

one minute it was 'great modelling, but rubbish on the fire & ice' next it was 'they are the winners'.

will need to inbibe some scottish water and rewatch in the hope that I will understand  :beers:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on October 26, 2018, 10:35:58 PM
Some excellent modelling by one team this week. If only all the teams in the series were of the same calibre, and the editors were a lot fairer in the way they portray them, this would have the makings of a good programme.

So I didn't waste an hour watching it. Maybe just 30 minutes.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: ScottishModeller on October 26, 2018, 10:38:00 PM
Quote from: class37025 on October 26, 2018, 09:49:04 PM
just watched on my5, and I must admit to being baffled at the result.

one minute it was 'great modelling, but rubbish on the fire & ice' next it was 'they are the winners'.

will need to inbibe some scottish water and rewatch in the hope that I will understand  :beers:
You need more than Scottish water.....

Even after the whisky it's hard to understand - and I was there....

One thing that was not covered about the winning layout was another pre-buildgate situation.

The whole of the upper layout ie engine shed and yard, arrived complete in one piece track laid ballasted and sceniced, to just pop onto the supports that had been built on the main baseboard.


We had prepared to take a lot more stuff pre-built but, after a 'phone call to the production team, decided we could not take any more as we believed we had used out allocation of '6 pre-built items'.

How wrong we were!

Anyway - good fun for all!

ps - This was actually the 1st heat that was filmed, but we got relegated to the 4th for people to view.

Thanks
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: weave on October 26, 2018, 11:49:52 PM
Hi all,

I'm still watching it and sort of enjoying it but the rules do seem to have gone out of the window.

I was thinking tonight's episode was a tricky one to judge as the winner's layout was the best but nothing to do with 'fire and ice' as such and now I know they brought in that (thank you ScottishModeller) I'm losing heart.

The program just doesn't know what it is. Do one or the the other. They say 'the best professional' modellers at the start of one episode, then say on another that they're not, teams who've never met before, last time only one in a team had modelled trains. Then the nothing to do with the theme.

Who's in charge Sepp Blatter?

Rant over. Sorry, still watchable in a strange way, probably that I now know it's not just me that BIG CHICKENS things up AND a guy was allowed to say the other word on the TV and I can't here :D

Cheers weave  :beers:

Sorry again, been on the vino  :doh:





Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: kirky on October 27, 2018, 09:04:14 AM
Quote from: weave on October 26, 2018, 11:49:52 PM

Who's in charge Sepp Blatter?


:laughabovepost: :laughabovepost: :laughabovepost: :laughabovepost: :laughabovepost:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: paulprice on October 27, 2018, 09:06:13 AM
Who is the Septic Bladder chap?? I bet he models GWR
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 27, 2018, 09:10:07 AM
Can't wait to see this  :uneasy:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Invicta Alec on October 27, 2018, 10:50:10 AM
Quote from: weave on October 26, 2018, 11:49:52 PM

The program just doesn't know what it is. Do one or the the other. They say 'the best professional' modellers at the start of one episode, then say on another that they're not, teams who've never met before, last time only one in a team had modelled trains. Then the nothing to do with the theme.


Totally agree weave.

Alec.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Yet_Another on October 27, 2018, 03:33:15 PM
The program knows exactly what it is. We're talking about it, and that's all that matters to the people selling the advertising slots.

Having said which, I missed the last 10 minutes of last night's, and so I thought I'd catch up on the My5 app. What a load of rubbish! They expected me to watch 10 minutes of adverts before it would show me the small part of the programme I was interested in. I deleted the app, and am none the wiser on the result.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: REGP on October 27, 2018, 04:37:33 PM
@Yet_Another (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=4156)

The Home Team won

Ray
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: fisherman on October 27, 2018, 04:56:23 PM
Fascinating to  watch...  winning  team  totally failed to  deliver  the  stated  spec of 'Fire  and  Ice ' and should  have been   third or  disqualified for  not trying!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 27, 2018, 04:57:13 PM
ie, the ones who turned up with half their layout pre-built  :veryangry:

"One thing that was not covered about the winning layout was another pre-buildgate situation.

The whole of the upper layout ie engine shed and yard, arrived complete in one piece track laid ballasted and sceniced, to just pop onto the supports that had been built on the main baseboard."

see scottish modeller's post
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 27, 2018, 05:01:07 PM
Quote from: fisherman on October 27, 2018, 04:56:23 PM
Fascinating to  watch...  winning  team  totally failed to  deliver  the  stated  spec of 'Fire  and  Ice ' and should  have been   third or  disqualified for  not trying!

a couple of wagons - yer right, a really embodiment of the requirement.

totally fed up with this, rules broken right left and centre, editing to make people made to look total pratts, can't see a second series happening, only the saddest t***ts would take part to see themselves on tv.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on October 27, 2018, 06:02:46 PM
Does this mean the idea of an NGF team for the next series is stuck in the sidings? :hmmm:

:D
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Lawrence on October 27, 2018, 07:12:44 PM
Quote from: class37025 on October 27, 2018, 05:01:07 PM
only the saddest t***ts would take part to see themselves on tv.

Guessing you didn't get accepted then, never mind, you can always apply to be on season 2  :D
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: RailGooner on October 27, 2018, 07:35:04 PM
Quote from: REGP on October 27, 2018, 04:37:33 PM
..
The Home Team won
...

I wonder if that's why they won Ray(?). But as I said to MBH, what is the one trick pony going to do for the next round?!?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Roy L S on October 27, 2018, 07:52:50 PM
Quote from: fisherman on October 27, 2018, 04:56:23 PM
Fascinating to  watch...  winning  team  totally failed to  deliver  the  stated  spec of 'Fire  and  Ice ' and should  have been   third or  disqualified for  not trying!

The Home Team would have won no matter how they abused the rules I think, a whole pre-built shed section, the core of the layout really was taking the Pi** big time and their claim to have embodied the week's theme "fire and ice", to be very generous was tenuous. I guess it is mostly intended as entertainment of a sort, with the "drama" we have become accustomed to in such shows, but yes, it is mostly a carrier to support the adverts that run in between really.


Roy
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on October 28, 2018, 08:53:29 PM
Is it just me or does the more lanky of the presenters look remarkably like a young John Cleese?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 28, 2018, 09:06:10 PM
Quote from: Lawrence on October 27, 2018, 07:12:44 PM
Quote from: class37025 on October 27, 2018, 05:01:07 PM
only the saddest t***ts would take part to see themselves on tv.

Guessing you didn't get accepted then, never mind, you can always apply to be on season 2  :D

take it your invitation went astray ?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: joe cassidy on October 28, 2018, 09:39:55 PM
I just watched the first 2 episodes on You Tube which I fond thoroughly entertaining and instructive.

The presenters are unpretentious and don't dominate the proceedings.

It was great to see Steve Flint on film.

The participants came across as everyday folk with only a slight hint of eccentricity.

And the best layouts won.

Thanks to Jon from Oz for the tip-off about YOU tube.

best regards,



Joe
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: JonHarbour on October 28, 2018, 09:56:03 PM
Quote from: joe cassidy on October 28, 2018, 09:39:55 PM
Thanks to Jon from Oz for the tip-off about YOU tube.

best regards,



Joe

Too kind.  Just happy to help :-[
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Stenba1968 on October 30, 2018, 08:59:20 AM
 :bounce: I have been watching the great model railway challenge, mainly because there's nothing else on. I have noticed it's all OO no N, but I have been inspired by it. So does anybody know where you can get a WW1 truck on a stick that goes round and round at 100mph and a big rubber dinosaur in 1:148scale
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 30, 2018, 09:19:59 AM
I'm on a bus on my phone at the moment, so can't redirect you, but there is already a huge thread on this.

Try General Discussion  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: RailGooner on October 30, 2018, 09:53:15 AM
Quote from: Bealman on October 30, 2018, 09:19:59 AM
I'm on a bus on my phone at the moment, so can't redirect you, but there is already a huge thread on this.

Try General Discussion  :thumbsup:

@Stenba1968 (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=6793)  try this:
http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=42686 (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=42686)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: stevewalker on October 30, 2018, 10:33:29 PM
I just watched the 4th episode tonight and I must say that Tim Shaw is much better as a presenter on this than on Car SOS, with its contrived, fake, "blags."
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 30, 2018, 10:44:12 PM
Episode 4 has just landed on YouTube, so I'll take a look.  :beers:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: JonHarbour on October 31, 2018, 12:52:44 AM
I had a look yesterday and it wasn't there... I'll have a look later on as well.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: NinOz on October 31, 2018, 07:53:27 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJS8JFloB_I (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJS8JFloB_I)
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on October 31, 2018, 09:14:00 AM
just tried the link and got a black screen with

Video unavailable
This video contains content from Channel 5, who has blocked it in your country on copyright grounds.


anyone in UK managed to watch it ?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: mickeyflinn on October 31, 2018, 09:33:38 AM
Quote from: class37025 on October 31, 2018, 09:14:00 AM
just tried the link and got a black screen with

Video unavailable
This video contains content from Channel 5, who has blocked it in your country on copyright grounds.


anyone in UK managed to watch it ?

https://www.my5.tv/the-great-model-railway-challenge/season-1/episode-4 (https://www.my5.tv/the-great-model-railway-challenge/season-1/episode-4)

If you have an ad-blocker enabled, you will have to disable it in order to watch the programme though.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 31, 2018, 09:48:26 AM
Seems for once, we have the advantage here in Aus!

Fed up with getting messages like you can't see this cos you're not in the UK.

Well it's coming through loud and clear on YouTube!  :P ;) :thumbsup:

Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 31, 2018, 09:49:28 AM
No ads, either.  :beers:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on October 31, 2018, 10:58:59 AM
Yeah, anyway, just finished watching episode 4.

The boring WR modellers produced a bog standard WR layout which did not address the theme.

They should have let the kids win. That would have been a great motivator for young modellers.


:thumbsdown: from me

As if I'm an expert!  :worried:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: JonHarbour on October 31, 2018, 12:56:40 PM
 I think the Diesel team would have probably won but for their running woes. No doubt the winning layout was of the highest standard of the three but it completely ignored the theme. Still, I enjoyed this fourth install
Ent just as much as the first three.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: ScottishModeller on October 31, 2018, 03:56:46 PM
Quote from: JonHarbour on October 31, 2018, 12:56:40 PM
I think the Diesel team would have probably won but for their running woes. No doubt the winning layout was of the highest standard of the three but it completely ignored the theme. Still, I enjoyed this fourth install
Ent just as much as the first three.
Hi Jon,

We thought we would win as well...

Running woes - that is an understatement!

I did an interview for the preview show that C5 decided they didn't want in which I went over the potential for failure in the way we were planning on controlling the trains and actuating the points.

I stated that I thought we were building multiple potential fail situations into the control system - and I turned out to be right!

So - how and what?

The layout was to be DCC controlled through a laptop with DecoderPro and PanelPro, then to MERG CBus and actual control via android device with Engine Driver.

Any of you with experience will see what I mean about having buiklt in potential fails!

The way I put it was

One black box, feeding another black box, interfacing with a pc and then android devices all connected via CBus with a virtual controller.

The trains didn't run because the interfaces didn't work properly with each other.

If it had been up to me I would just have had the DCC and put up with it.

So - we failed because we couldn't get the trains to run.

Seems a pretty fair decision!

Thanks
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: JonHarbour on October 31, 2018, 08:01:22 PM
I feel your pain.... working in IT, I fully appreciate how things go when you start to introduce additional potential failure points. :)

It's great when you have the time to fix stuff - when Microsoft introduced the 'plug and play' term, we all very quickly learnt it was more a case of 'plug and play about'.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: ScottishModeller on October 31, 2018, 09:08:14 PM
Quote from: JonHarbour on October 31, 2018, 08:01:22 PM
I feel your pain.... working in IT, I fully appreciate how things go when you start to introduce additional potential failure points. :)

It's great when you have the time to fix stuff - when Microsoft introduced the 'plug and play' term, we all very quickly learnt it was more a case of 'plug and play about'.
Hi Jon,

I have a similar background - I was a certified trainer but not kept it up due to the ridiculous price I would have to pay as an individual, non corporate buyer.

In the end it did work - sort of.

I went round everything including the android devices, turned them all off and then turned them back on in the sequence that they were connected in.

This gave us basic control of the engines, but getting PanelPro to work the points was a no go.

Thanks
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Railwaygun on October 31, 2018, 10:18:49 PM
Quote from: JonHarbour on October 31, 2018, 08:01:22 PM
I feel your pain.... working in IT, I fully appreciate how things go when you start to introduce additional potential failure points. :)

It's great when you have the time to fix stuff - when Microsoft introduced the 'plug and play' term, we all very quickly learnt it was more a case of 'plug and play about'.

Plug'n Pray!
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on November 02, 2018, 11:54:28 PM
just watched tonight's episode on My5, and dare I say it, IMHO, the best so far.

three great layouts, and a worthy win for ...... the winners.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: LeftToMyOwnDevices on November 03, 2018, 12:31:55 AM
...and I've just watched it on Channel 5+1.

As the credits rolled, I thought I heard the voiceover say:
"...if you would like to appear in our next series..."

:jawdropping:

Wow...!

I'm sure that, for some of you, that might be a nightmare.  :thumbsdown: :no:
Hopefully, for others, it might just be a positive thing. :thumbsup: :claphappy:

Let the debate continue...! 8)

Charles.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on November 03, 2018, 08:56:10 AM
Yes, a better crop of layouts this week and some fine modelling, though some landscaping was  a little .... er..... rough.

The theme was water, which gave the contestants a rather big problem, for as one of the judges said at the beginning, adding a water element takes a lot of time in modelling properly. Not what they had in three days. All in all though they managed the theme well.


If there is another series I would make two pleas to the Producers: scrap the scratch-build challenge; and show us more of the finished layouts rather than so many shots of talking heads.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on November 03, 2018, 09:11:55 AM
Not seen it yet, but I would imagine the 'water' theme would be of interest to many of the regular posters on the forum so I hope some good tips/methods appeared.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: ntpntpntp on November 03, 2018, 09:18:58 AM
Actually fell asleep and missed the end of last night's episode, so will have to play catch-up.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on November 03, 2018, 09:30:36 AM
Yes, I agree with daffy... the scratchbuilding challenge is an unecessary aside.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: MKP on November 03, 2018, 10:58:23 AM
Not sure if it is made by the same company but seems to follow the same format as this program (and a very similar name):

http://www.studiolambert.com/the-great-interior-design-challenge.html (http://www.studiolambert.com/the-great-interior-design-challenge.html)

the also have to do a "challenge"
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: joe cassidy on November 03, 2018, 12:10:43 PM
Hear Hear for scrapping the scratch build challenge.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on November 03, 2018, 12:30:19 PM
if they want to keep the scratch build challenge .....

give them a pile of plasticard / plastic shapes / balsa etc, not old shoes or water bottles.

was very pleased to see the comments re the plaster / paint / epoxy water not being viable in 3 days, a warning to those who might think they could make something similar in a couple of days.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: ScottishModeller on November 03, 2018, 04:30:07 PM
Hi all,

That's it - everyone must know that there will be a second series by now........

Diesel Dynamos intend to take part again.

I had a thought about an entry in N Gauge as well, but will have to wait for the producers response before getting into that any further.

But, 'N Gauge Crusaders' seems to have a nice ring to it!

Just saying........................................
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Philip. on November 03, 2018, 04:48:31 PM
I enjoyed last nights heat, any of the 3 layouts would have been worthy winners, some good modelling on show even if the English Channel looked more like a scene from Doctor Who!

I'd be happy to keep the scratch build challenge if they were to use, as someone else posted, stuff modellers would actually use.

Hopefully the producers will learn from this series and make Series 2 more flowing and less rushed, also show a little more modelling going on.

A 6 out of 10 from me, plenty of promise, but lots of room for improvement.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: austinbob on November 03, 2018, 04:56:59 PM
Reluctantly... Watched it last night as couldn't find anything else I wanted to see.
Reluctantly... Found it quite enjoyable.
Reluctantly... Might watch it next week.
:-[ :beers:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: zwilnik on November 03, 2018, 05:45:11 PM
I'm enjoying it so far but can see a few game design flaws they need to sort for the next series.
Firstly, keep the scratch build challenge as it does show the regular viewer that you can create interesting models or features from household scrap. It may be worth tuning the items given to them so that only one is a radically odd or funny one but it *is* meant to challenge the modellers to think on their feet. What they have to do though is make the scratch build challenge *Mandatory* ie don't do it and you lose, either by automatic disqualification or doing a scoring system that makes it critical for a final score.
On the scoring point they also have to be more strict with the rules. It may require them to be defined a bit better but "6 prebuilt scenic items" can only be a max of 6 and can't be the entire trackbed with wiring and ballast if that skews the game.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on November 03, 2018, 09:37:26 PM
Having watched the latest show this afternoon I thought "At last - they're being a bit more serious about things" but the appalling puns and ghastly 'jokey' music just don't promote the programme properly IMHO. I also think any team taking the stance of "We'll see if we can get things running but if not it doesn't matter. It'll be a strike day" just takes the pibiscuit.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on November 03, 2018, 10:46:43 PM
Having read comments about the sctatchbuild challenge, yeah.... if it was stuff like plasticard, brickpaper, etc they were provided with, instead of the current nonsense items, then it could be worthwhile.

However my core assessment (which is worth nowt) is it's a bit of a waste of time.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Graham on November 05, 2018, 05:42:08 AM
Quote from: Bealman on October 31, 2018, 09:48:26 AM
Seems for once, we have the advantage here in Aus!

Fed up with getting messages like you can't see this cos you're not in the UK.

Well it's coming through loud and clear on YouTube!  :P ;) :thumbsup:
Just tried to follow the link and looks like it is blocked. Any other suggestions?

cheers
Graham
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on November 05, 2018, 06:39:20 AM
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=the+great+model+railway+challenge (https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=the+great+model+railway+challenge)

Jon's link worked fine....

How's this?
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Graham on November 05, 2018, 09:39:53 AM
great thanks, managed to get 1,2 & 4 but cant find 3 yet.

will keep looking.

cheers
Graham
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on November 05, 2018, 09:46:27 AM
Yeah, I'm not a huge YouTube user, and therefore not tuned in to the quirks of the medium.

I'm currently hoping I can access episode 5, which apparently is an improvement on the rest.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Philip. on November 10, 2018, 09:26:05 AM
A good end to the series I thought and the winning layout was brilliant. One thing I was impressed with, was the consistency of the judging, they got it just about right every week (maybe the only hiccup was Fire and Ice week)

Loved the 800s journey through all the layouts too. I've increased my score to 7/10 and will look forward to Series 2.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on November 10, 2018, 09:34:55 AM
I agree, though I was pi annoyed by one of the talking heads repeatedly referring to 'narrow gauge' instead of 'N gauge', but I guess you can't expect too much from them, spend most of the time making awful puns.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Philip. on November 10, 2018, 09:47:46 AM
Quote from: class37025 on November 10, 2018, 09:34:55 AM
I agree, though I was pi annoyed by one of the talking heads repeatedly referring to 'narrow gauge' instead of 'N gauge', but I guess you can't expect too much from them, spend most of the time making awful puns.

I think it was the 2 clownspresenters that kept calling it narrow guage, I'm sure the judges said N gauge, but yes, that was a minor irritation  :doh:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daffy on November 10, 2018, 10:19:50 AM
A worthy winning team, and some fine modelling from scratch by all the teams.

But for me the whole episode was marred by a team of presenters who had, maybe at the instigation of the director, decided to adopt an entirely negative approach to proceedings. So we had comments throughout about teams being behind schedule, not doing this, not having done that, and even stopping everybody at one point to inform them of the presenters concerns.

And then when we got to the final run through, the whole thing was hurried, with scant views for we the viewers of the fine layouts created, and too many shots of presenters reacting with delight to the passage of the through train.

All in all, some really good modelling, but zero points to the presenters.
Hopefully Series 2, which I look forward to, will adopt a better approach.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: bridgiesimon on November 10, 2018, 10:27:15 AM
Quote from: class37025 on November 10, 2018, 09:34:55 AM
I agree, though I was pi annoyed by one of the talking heads repeatedly referring to 'narrow gauge' instead of 'N gauge', but I guess you can't expect too much from them, spend most of the time making awful puns.

That was doing my head in as well.

I thought that the final was the best round of the lot! less nonsense, less edited to show off arrogance etc and showed a little mode model making, though still not really enough. I thought that the right team won, their ideas and the way it was produced was superb!! (me being very careful to express my opinion without giving away anything to those not watched it yet!)

Best wishes
Simon
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: bbdave on November 10, 2018, 02:31:46 PM
I thought as a series it had issues but willing to put my name down to any n gauge team formed and have a go myself.

Dave
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Buffin on November 12, 2018, 11:18:13 PM
Just caught up with the final, which I thought the worst edited of the lot. With 5 layouts to look at, too much chat, too much time spent showing fitting the modules together, and the male/female connectors issue must have baffled many non-modeller viewers.

The winning layout was in a class of its own (so it shouldn't have been a close decision) but we got only glimpses of it so we were shortchanged.

Good viewing figures & I'm glad there's going to be another series, but the programme makers had fallen lazily in love with the format for the heats, which didn't suit the final. They prioritised forced chit-chat segments over really showing us the layouts, which was a big mistake. Fresh thinking was needed.

For series 2 I would replace Steve Flint, who is not a natural TV performer. I don't know who I would bring in alongside Kathy. The presenters and judges are trying to look casual,  but smart casual would look better than downmarket.

A fun basis for series 2.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: JJS on November 13, 2018, 12:39:36 PM
As a newcomer to Model Railway Building I was hoping for more focus on techniques and layout views from the programme - and less inane chat. But, that said, it has prompted me to actually get started now and the series was mildly entertaining.
Unfortunately my wife's first episode was the one with some "eccentric" folk in strange costume (episode 3???) and she did find that a bit of a turn-off in terms of sharing my enthusiasm for the hobby (Quote: " I hope that they're not all like that at the local MRG!") Haven't watched the last episode yet
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: port perran on November 13, 2018, 12:56:03 PM
Saw the final last evening and thought it was ok with the best layout winning.
Maybe a slightly longer episode (45 mins?) for the final would allow a bit more detailed coverage of the actual builds.
Overall, I thought the whole thing was good but there is room for improvement and hopefully the producers will learn from the first series and put a few changes in place for Series Two.
I'm not convinced that Tim Shaw works well as one of the presenters.
Similarly, I wasn't sure what Steve Flint contributed - maybe someone who is a little more comfortable in front of the camera would be better.

Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Newportnobby on November 13, 2018, 02:52:07 PM
Maybe it might teach some entrants not to be so smug/arrogant. I can't remember which team it was but one old chap, when told "I'm worried you might run out of time" replied "it's not your place to worry.It's mine" He then stomped off muttering "if we run out of time, then we run out of time".
What a surprise. His team didn't win.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daveg on November 13, 2018, 05:42:38 PM
Agree with the too much chat and not enough about each layout.

I can understand that the presenters need to have a word or two with each team but it always seemed to end up with a something along the lines of 'there's not much time left'.

The winner was certainly the best layout on the day.

Dave G
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on November 13, 2018, 11:15:37 PM
Just watched episode 5 this morning and quite enjoyed it. Easily the best. The final hasn't turned up on YouTube yet, but I'll watch it.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: joe cassidy on November 16, 2018, 06:37:42 PM
I just watched the final.

Aberdeen deserved to win, but I imagine that Kathy had to twist Steve Flint's arm to get him vote for such an unusual layout.

Maybe Chris Leigh could replace Steve for the next series - he is more natural in front of the camera - or Ben Ando ?

Best regards,


Joe
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: port perran on November 18, 2018, 07:32:48 PM
An interesting perspective on this show.
I have just finished two days of exhibiting Tregonning at the Model Engineering Showcase event at the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth.
This event attracted lots of people (it was very busy) and, significantly, by no means just model rail enthusiasts.
Interestingly, many, many people mentioned the Model Railway Challenge. Most of these people were not  railway modellers but without exception everyone I spoke to really enjoyed the TV show and felt that it was a great showcase for railway modelling.
So....it seems that the general public liked it and took it at face value.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: joe cassidy on November 18, 2018, 09:33:55 PM
One of the things I liked was that there were plenty of young modellers in evidence, and at least one team 100% "young".

Perhaps the producers might consider having a special award for the best young team in the next series ?

Best regards,


Joe
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: bridgiesimon on November 18, 2018, 10:38:05 PM
Maybe even take it a step further and have a junior series along side the senior series in the future?

Best wishes
Simon
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: daveg on November 19, 2018, 06:00:31 AM
Great to learn of the interest the show generated.

We were discussing the show once again after watching the Lego Masters on TV we both thought the format of that program was much better.

Maybe there's point or two  :-[ to be learnt by the GMRC production team.

Dave G
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on November 19, 2018, 06:06:09 AM
Quote from: joe cassidy on November 18, 2018, 09:33:55 PM
One of the things I liked was that there were plenty of young modellers in evidence, and at least one team 100% "young".

Perhaps the producers might consider having a special award for the best young team in the next series ?

Best regards,


Joe

Yeah, I enjoyed watching the young team. They tried very hard, and learned a few things in the process.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: grumbeast on November 19, 2018, 05:30:33 PM
Binge Watched the whole show and final on YouTube and have a few thoughts

I enjoyed it kinda, I  mean, lets face it, it wasn't really made for model railroaders, it just doesn't have anywhere near enough content.  I really didn't like the presenters and the adversarial contrived format, but that seems to be a requirement for modern TV.  The canned dialogue was horrible (especially the introductions of the judges, which were frankly insulting to them), The themes, while a good idea, I don't think worked and the incidental music was downright offensive (male voice choir in the background for the chaps from Penarth.. please, anymore stereotypes you want to reinforce!).  Also the focus on animations and the absurd "scratchbuild something with this shoe" rubbish was demeaning to the teams.

My rant aside, I enjoyed it as its always great to see model railways on TV and there were clearly some good ideas and talented modellers.  I think my biggest disappointment was that I would have loved to have seen what some of those modellers were capable of with a bit more time.

I think the right team 'won'  even though I really don't like that extreme degree of fantasy, they showed tremendous imagination and execution.

I'll watch season 2 and enjoy it, but I do hope they heavily tweak the format and lose the idiotic puns.  A cooperative competition would be better, with a more consistent theme that would really show off what some of these talented (and eager newbs) could do.

To conclude (and sorry for the long rant), the producers must get props for making a show that I both really hated and really enjoyed simultaneously.

Graham
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Lawrence on November 19, 2018, 07:22:42 PM
I think @port perran (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=230) comments sums it up, it did engage the non modelling public and may encourage future modelers clearly there are some caveats. Some of the features that teams were bound to include are perhaps not for the entry level modeler and there was little in the way of explanations given, this may discourage.
I would like them to better explain the art of track laying and basic scenery construction plus electrical/isolation theory before they get too tied up in the fluff. It may not make great TV and I realise there is lots of footage on youtube for this sort of thing, but I wouldn't want viewers to get a false impression of modeling as this could have the opposite effect to encouraging modelers.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: guest311 on November 19, 2018, 08:04:02 PM
perhaps instead of the scratchbuild challenge, spend the time each episode on simple tutorials, ie track laying, dc electrics, basic landscaping, card / plastic building kits etc.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Bealman on November 25, 2018, 01:07:56 AM
Managed to watch the final episode of the show this morning. Must say I quite enjoyed it. If you take it as a bit of lightweight TV, I feel it's very watchable.

As Steve Flint notes in the December RM, an audience of 1.3 million is a ten fold increase on the magazine's best ever circulation figure.

As I write this, I'm aware that the Warley show is on this weekend - if I was there, I'd definitely take a look at the two layouts from the show. Looking forward to reports from forum members who attend!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Graham on November 25, 2018, 05:58:55 PM
managed to get to Warley, thought the efforts of the teams were pretty good given the very short amount of time they actually spent making them. Haven't seen the final couple of shows yet, but as has been stated not a bad piece of light TV. Given the crowds of youngsters around the show layouts i would dare to say this was good for the model railway industry/hobby.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: TrevL on November 27, 2018, 03:47:48 PM
On the whole, I enjoyed the series, but for one thing, that Tim Whatisface came across as a pain in the a***.
I made the mistake of googling him and it appears he is a very clever man.  He should stick to what he is clever at and leave presenting to someone else.
Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: Skyline2uk on December 02, 2018, 09:43:10 PM
Righto

Having power-watched the entire series in a couple of days and read this thread end to end this evening, my thoughts as follows:

(*Only my thoughts, I have no idea of general viewing preference*)

I was very very weary of even giving this a go. This hobby means a lot to me, and I am not about to watch it get mocked on TV.

However my father in law (with whom I have built a round the ceiling Christmas Railway again this year) watched and enjoyed it and was keen for my views.

On the whole, good modelling and creative thinking. The judges were consistent and the best layout appeared to win each time*

I didn't like the "jokes", I wasn't keen on the presenters and actually I must be honest in saying "don't expect perfection after three days!" to the judges (respect them as I do).

To be critical of the "rough edges" was just daft. Two of the teams (actually the Winners and mentioned close second) produced layouts that I would struggle to achieve in 2 years and wouldn't feel hard done by paying to see.

My teeth were on edge when I kept seeing people under the boards with soldering irons....especially whilst in a hurry!

Agree with the general feeling on scratch build challenge. Overall pointless and didn't add anything. Needs changing or scrapping.

Would probably watch a second series, even if the format is identical and presenters the same (can mute or fast forward on catch up).

Skyline2uk

*Having read the entire thread I am saddened and annoyed to hear that the rules may not have been applied as consistently as the show would have us believe. I too thought the 6 item limit was broken in episode one, to hear what others got up to without punishment makes me a bit  :veryangry:

Title: Re: The Great Model Railway Challenge
Post by: honk843 on December 03, 2018, 12:35:05 AM
I do agree with a lot of what has been said before particularly the demonstration aspect which other people have also mentioned to me. Perhaps an explanation of other (non-OO) scales would also help.
Although I was not a member of the team, as I do N gauge and it was clear that OO was the scale of choice within the rules, I am a Missenden regular and having been since and heard Barry Cousens defence of the situation, I understand that although it was the first to be shown the episode involving Missenden Modellers was the last to be filmed. Again there are I understand seven pages of rules (I have not seen them) but understand there is no definition of what an item is within the six item limit. There is however a very fixed limit to the cost of the project and their layout was about £200 under budget, so they felt that they had not really cheated, as they were still within budget. As a viewer I really did not appreciate the complexity of their layout involving things like moving derricks on the boats in the harbour or the shuttle unit making the shunter on the dockside go back and forth. Four of the team are member of MERG and the electronics were therefore pretty special I believe. The editing of the program is the all in the end and in that regard Barry felt he was well stitched up.

However I understand that the Missenden website took more hits within 24 hours of the show being broadcast than the previous year. I believe the layout is scheduled to appear at various shows across the country next year ( I don't have dates etc.) and they are unlikely to appear again particularly since Kathy MIllatt is signed up for the Spring Weekend at Missenden 2019.