N Gauge Forum

Notices, Help With Problems and Your Forum Ideas... => Notices => Topic started by: Tank on November 15, 2020, 12:50:58 PM

Title: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Tank on November 15, 2020, 12:50:58 PM
Here we are, 10 years since the N Gauge Forum went live!  :o

In 2010 I had finished my time on another busy forum, which came to an end.  I missed the buzz and the community, I wanted to get that back somehow.  I felt that my main hobby at the time was lacking somewhere online that was moderated in a decent manner and dedicated to just N gauge.  After consideration and working out what was needed I set up the forum and invited a handful of people to join.

Back then I was working nightshifts, so on my nights off I had plenty of time to create models and paint them, then post them on here.  I like to think that this helped to draw people into joining in and make posts about what they were doing.

At first, I got some negative critism from a couple of well known N gauge figures, but I continued to keep the website growing.  The forum has grown into a busy place, where at one time I used to read every post religiously, I now manage to read a handful.  My main priority of the forum is to keep it friendly.  Whilst this is impossible to achieve this 100% of the time with so many characters on here, I hope that the general feel is that it is a welcoming and enjoyable place to be.

I have had a great team behind me from the very early days, with great ideas and help to advise me.  It can be hard to choose the right people for the 'job' as a moderator, as they need to be a good character, friendly, helpful, online a lot (!) and able to direct members in a kind manner.  This forum would not exist without their great work.  Do remember, they're volunteers, who model like you, but keep our community going!  :)

So, a lot has changed for me in the years that have followed since the beginning.  I now have three children, a couple of job changes, and I am having to care for my father - who lives with us.  Time is really at a premium.  My modelling is nearly none existent, so I feel like I'm missing a chunk out of my life at the moment - especially not being able to contribute to the forum as I once did.  I am always inspired by so many of your efforts on the forum, but ultimately, I wish I had time to join in as well.  One day I'll be back!   :D

One thing I do miss on here is our amazing raffles that we used to do.  We had so many great models to give away, but we sadly had to end it due to Paypal threatening to ban us due to gambling laws.  Hopefully I can find a way around this and we could start again?!  A big change for us in the last couple of years has been the N Gauge SouthEast Show, which has been an incredible success.  Working with the East Surrey N Gauge club (ESNG) we put a show together in 2019 at Riddlesdown, and our second was due to be this year.  As you can figure out, this was cancelled, and we decided to miss out on organising for next year as well.  We'll be back in 2022 for what I hope to be another fantastic show!  :)

Over the years I've made some great friends on here.  Many of you (most of you!) I've not met in person, but I do enjoy talking to you and helping out where I can.  I've been lucky in that there are not many bad incidents on this forum, with probably just 15 people banned on here in all of that time - I think this is a great achievment in itself!  This is the internet, so there will always be all sorts of good and bad characters, or just characters that occasionally clash sometimes.  I feel that this is generally very rare on here and I appreciate the positive words that myself and the team receive.  I don't always get things right myself, but I always welcome all feedback and feel that I'm approachable - as long as the feedback is respectful!  ;)  We are all learning about the hobby all of the time and should be encouraging each other, whilst also enjoying ourselves.

To finish up, THANK YOU for your support on the forum.  Your posts and contributions keep us going, and I'm proud that this has been the leading online website for N gauge.  I appreciate all of your donations each month, thank you.  Again, I really appreciate the NGF team (past and present) for your help and prods for me to get things done (mainly Newportnobby!), thank you.

Happy modelling everyone!
Tank/Chris.

:Class31: :NGFWagonTour: :NGFWagonTour:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: StufromEGDL on November 15, 2020, 01:11:14 PM
Hi Tank,

I have been on here since nearly the early days and it is so much better to have somewhere to go without having to whittle out the chat from other scales.
You and the team have done a great job and kept a light touch on the moderation.
Long may it continue.

Regards,
Stu from EGDL.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Train Waiting on November 15, 2020, 01:23:28 PM
Congratulations for the 10 years, Chris, and for all you have achieved.  I'm a relative newcomer, having only been a member for just over three years, but I think our Forum is a tremendous asset for all of us who model, would like to model, or are thinking about modelling, in 'N' gauge.  I've had no direct involvement with other internet forums but I've heard that they can be unpleasant places from time to time.  Our Forum is pretty much free of this which is a tribute to you, our excellent moderators and our members.

I hope you have more modelling time in future.

Congratulations again, many thanks and the very best of good wishes.

John
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: dannyboy on November 15, 2020, 01:33:23 PM
I have been a member of this forum for nearly six years - January 2015 - and at that time, I did not have a layout, knew nothing about n gauge and had just bought my first 'train set', the 'Countryside Coal' set. Since that time, I built my first layout, a 4' x 2' coffee table using the 'Countryside Coal set' as the basis. I am now approaching the end of creating 'Averingcliffe' and would just like to say that none of this would have been possible without the forum. So a big thank you to a) @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2) for starting this whole thing; b) the Moderators for keeping us all in check whilst being reasonably light handed, (most of the time  ;)), and finally, c) my fellow modellers, some of whom have become (internet) friends. Everything I have learnt about our hobby is as a direct, or indirect, result of other members sharing their knowledge. So, a big  :thankyousign: to everybody. Here's to the next ten years.  :beers:
:NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: cornish yorkie on November 15, 2020, 01:39:36 PM
 :hellosign:
  Many thanks Chris @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2) & all the moderators, must say thougherly enjoy the hours spent reading & sharing with all the members. Hope to hear your modelling again & long may the  :NGaugeForum: continue
stay safe regards Derek
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Malc on November 15, 2020, 01:51:08 PM
I think you can be very proud of what you have achieved, Chris. Many thanks to you and all the mods past and present.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: crewearpley40 on November 15, 2020, 01:59:11 PM
Thanks to Tank, Mick, George, Ian, Nick, Ben , Paul. Keep up the good work. Congratulations on reaching this milestone
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: EllieJae on November 15, 2020, 02:04:30 PM
Many thanks Chris.   I have followed the forum as a guest for a couple of years and only joined a few weeks ago - I should have done it much sooner.  You and the mods have done, and kepp doing, a fantastic job.
Alan
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Nbodger on November 15, 2020, 02:17:47 PM
As a relative newcomer at just over 6 months, I have fully enjoyed the experience, advice and dare I say it, humour and look forward to an enjoyable future here on this brilliant forum.

I came with a 75% complete layout, and the Forum has given me the inspiration to getting it near completion.

Chris @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2) , it is you and all the mods we should be thanking for the experience.

May the forum go from strength to strength in the coming years

Mike H   8)
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Bob Tidbury on November 15, 2020, 02:31:10 PM
 :thankyousign: TANK  for putting This FORUM on my Ipad for me .
and  :thankyousign: to all the moderators for keeping us under control .
We have had one or two silly arguements from some members but all things considered and with now over 7000 members its bound to happen sometimes but on the whole this really is a friendly Forum  ,and I am really pleased that so many members have been to visit me and Stonehouse .
Its so nice to be a member of such a great bunch of guys and girls ,who are full of help and encouragement to beginers .
Congratulations Boss and long may this Forum continue .
Bob Tidbury
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Papyrus on November 15, 2020, 02:33:20 PM
Agree with all of the above replies! I joined the day after I retired in 2013. I was coming back to the hobby after a break of 20 years and I can't put a price on all the help, advice and encouragement I have received. This is just the best forum and a credit to everybody involved.

Well done, Chris @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2). To coin a phrase, you have the hero light on your brow! Hope you can find time for some proper modelling soon. Here's to the next 10 years.

All the best,

Chris

:NGF:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: port perran on November 15, 2020, 02:45:24 PM
Thank you for creating such a fantastic forum Tank.
I've just checked and I've been a member for over 9 years (I can't believe it).
In that time, I've dallied, briefly, with 2 or 3 other forums. My interest in those lasted no more than three weeks and that says a lot about the NGF.
There is something for everyone on here and that's a great thing.
And there are people on here with such widely varying interests and abilities.
Like others, I have made several good 'internet friends' through this forum. Living in West Cornwall, my only regret is that I haven't met many folk face to face. Although I have met some (you know who you are).
Anyway, long may the NGF continue.
Thank you to the moderators who control the whole thing so well.
And thanks again Tank.
All the best
Martin


Long may the forum continue and go
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Skyline2uk on November 15, 2020, 02:46:09 PM
 :NGF:

Just to add my congratulations on the "main" forum.

Just looked up and I joined in Feb 2012, so done over 8 years.

The only forum I am a member of, have ever been a member of and see wanting to be a member of.

Skyline2uk
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: RailGooner on November 15, 2020, 03:04:20 PM
Membership of this forum has helped to reawaken my enthusiasm for modelling and sate my general interest in railways. It's also made me laugh, sigh, even cry. Many thanks to Chris @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2), all the Mods, and every single member.

:NGF:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: guest311 on November 15, 2020, 03:11:56 PM
is it really that long ago ?

found it one night shift in June 2011, been here ever since.

can't imagine life without it now.

so as previously said

thank you Tank
thank you Mods
and a big thank you to all the members. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: busbar on November 15, 2020, 03:16:18 PM
May I also add my congratulations for creating such a great forum with so much information and interest.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: mk1gtstu on November 15, 2020, 03:46:36 PM
Thank you to Tank & all the moderators & forum members for making this a great forum for our hobby. Long may it continue!  :thumbsup: :beers: :thankyousign: :NGaugersRule:

Cheers, Stu
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: BramptonBranch on November 15, 2020, 04:06:51 PM
Thanks for the effort Guys.Ive benefitted from this forum in lots of ways.

Always something for everyone.

Andy
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Ben A on November 15, 2020, 04:14:18 PM

Hi Tank,

Wow - a decade already?  Congratulations, and thanks or starting the forum and maintaining it. 

I checked my own profile and it tells me was three months late to the party, joining in February 2011!  It's been a blast!

cheers

Ben A.

Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: daffy on November 15, 2020, 04:51:33 PM
A little over four years ago I took the decision to build an N gauge layout based in Switzerland. Problem was I knew nothing much about anything that I would need to know and do, and for some weeks I floundered around in shops and on the internet hoping to gain some insight and knowledge.

Then one day I came across this Forum. Quite by luck I had discovered what for me has been the best knowledge base on all things modelling and railways that I could have hoped to find. It is my 'go to' place for all my queries, and clicking on just about any thread leads to a broadening of my horizons.

So thank you Chris @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2) for all your efforts and those of the team that make this place so enjoyable for so many many reasons. :greatwork:

Here's to the next 10 years! :beers:

:thankyousign:  :NGF:


Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Richard G Dallimore on November 15, 2020, 05:32:41 PM
Quote from: Ben A on November 15, 2020, 04:14:18 PM

Hi Tank,

Wow - a decade already?  Congratulations, and thanks or starting the forum and maintaining it. 

I checked my own profile and it tells me was three months late to the party, joining in February 2011!  It's been a blast!

cheers

Ben A.



I had to look it up as well and I joined in January 2011, such a lot has happen in the last 10 years.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Dorsetmike on November 15, 2020, 06:30:09 PM
Had to do a look up as well, 2013 so a bit late on the scene! I'd previously spent time on an American model rail forumbut got asked to leave after making some comment about the yanks being a bit late getting into WW2 - among other things! I also visit RMweb from time to time, and  a forum called Your Railway club - mostly orrible oversize, but a few N gauge, even at least one from here. Other forums include Photo and Music.
At 86 I'm not as active as I was, no layout other than a test track currently, but plans in hand for a rebirth as mentioned elsewhere on this forum.
Whatever you're doing Chris @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2), it seems to be working so might as well try for another 10 (Hope I can stick around that long!
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: mika on November 15, 2020, 07:10:59 PM
Happy birthday, NGF!

Thanks to Tank and all the moderators for giving us this wonderful forum.
The forum had been recommended to me by Mark @1977joey (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2657) and I'm glad he did. I've learnt a lot during the 7 years that I've been a member here.

:NGF:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: 1977joey on November 15, 2020, 07:14:53 PM
Quote from: mika on November 15, 2020, 07:10:59 PM
Happy birthday, NGF!

Thanks to Tank and all the moderators for giving us this wonderful forum.
The forum had been recommended to me by Mark @1977joey (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2657) and I'm glad he did. I've learnt a lot during the 7 years that I've been a member here.

:NGF:

Glad I did too Michael  :beers:

Happy Anniversary NGF  :beers: :beers:

Cheers,
Mark
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: GrahamB on November 15, 2020, 07:48:54 PM
Happy birthday NGF! Looking back I was surprised to see I joined just over nine years ago. Time flies when you're having fun.

Thanks for creating the forum. Be proud of what you have created.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Geoff on November 15, 2020, 08:41:29 PM
Many thanks Tank and moderators for 10 great years may there be many more, not been on here for a long while due to family commitments but I will be back in the future with more posts.

Well done to all the team.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Adam1701D on November 15, 2020, 09:17:38 PM
Ten years already....can't be.

I am so grateful to Tank and the Mods for making this a fun, relaxed place to be and the support in particular to us cottage industries spreading the word.

Thank you, one and all. Here's to 2021 and year 11!
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Trainfish on November 15, 2020, 10:52:21 PM
Yeah, it's ok here isn't it? And you don't have to dress up all posh either. Thanks @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2)   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Railwaygun on November 15, 2020, 11:53:46 PM
8 years a member, and its been a lifeline. Keep up the good work. lads/lasses etc

NickR
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Hailstone on November 16, 2020, 12:25:39 AM
Congratulations Chris @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2) and all the mods for keeping this forum going. i joined in 2012 and the information not only written here, but the help I have received from forum members has got me out of trouble more than once, and I hope that the few times that I have added my own additions has helped others.

All the best

Alex
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: LASteve on November 16, 2020, 02:33:28 AM
It's all been said already, but I'll say it again - Thank you Tank, thank you moderators and thank you everyone who contributes and thank you everyone who asks for advice so we can all learn.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Bealman on November 16, 2020, 04:23:39 AM
Checking my profile, it turns out I signed up 6 months after Tank started the forum. I was very honoured when I was asked to join the team not long after.

The job takes a lot of my time, but it is generally a pleasure, as I've been into model railways all my life. I have made many internet friends here over the years.

Down points... the passing of great members over the years, such as Peter Charles Fagg and Trainsdownunder.

Highlights... not sure I should let him know this.... meeting fellow mod NewportNobby in Blackpool in 2013 and then again six months later at the Wigan show.

Also meeting mod railsquid for a boozy night at a pub in Tokyo in 2018.

Here's to another ten years!  :beers:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: daveg on November 16, 2020, 07:20:07 AM
Very happy to add my congratulations and thanks for such a great forum.

Looking back, I joined in February 2012 and although time has been in short supply recently, I do pop in from time to time to see what you guys are up to.

Best wishes to all N Gaugers and thanks for your company over the years.

Dave G
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: NTrain on November 16, 2020, 07:41:44 AM
Ten years, when did that happen...................

Been happy to support when I have been able.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: chrism on November 16, 2020, 07:46:14 AM
Well I'm a relative newcomer, being just over a week short of two years here.

When I started planning on working in n-gauge, as one does, I looked at several sites and this seemed to me the easiest to use, the most informative and, equally importantly, the friendliest - so I joined just this forum and have had no reason to regret that decision whatsoever.

Many thanks to @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2) and the team for providing the resource and to all the other members for their assistance, encouragement and community spirit.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Graham on November 16, 2020, 07:59:43 AM
Congratulations on the 10yrs, I thought i had only been on a short while before retirement, turned out i joined in 2012, doesnt seem that long ago.

What a great forum, i have learnt so much, and without the pointers when i started dabbling in DCC I would probably have thrown the lot out the window.

Now retired it is my first port of call every morning to see what is happening.

I am very proud of my NGF mug which I use every week on my visit to our local model railway club.

all the best to everyone who make this happen.

cheers
Graham
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: zwilnik on November 16, 2020, 08:01:08 AM
I joined about a week after the forum started according to my profile, mostly it seems so I could post a comment on a silly photo Tank had posted :)

Not regretted a moment of being a member of the NGF, it's been informative, useful and (despite @dannyboy (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=4209) and his running groaners thread ;) ) often funny :)

Keeping a forum like this working for 10 years is a major achievement, well done Chris!
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: LAandNQFan on November 16, 2020, 08:51:58 AM
I've been a very grateful member for six years, and my layout would have cost twice as much and would have been a tenth as successful if it had not been for the forum.  Helpful advice and generous encouragement have been unfailing from Caz, Bealman, NPN, Chris in Prague and Tank throughout that time.  Thanks to all of you for what you have helped me to do.
:thankyousign: :NGF: :thankyousign:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: dannyboy on November 16, 2020, 08:55:46 AM
Quote from: Graham on November 16, 2020, 07:59:43 AM

I am very proud of my NGF mug which I use every week on my visit to our local model railway club.


Maybe now would be a good time to have a new mug produced - 'NGF 10th'.  ???
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: maridunian on November 16, 2020, 09:40:15 AM
I'd just like to add my congratulations and thanks. It"s a big Internet, but this site is one of the half dozen I check a few times a day. I've been modelling in N gauge since the 1970s, but I learn something new on here every day. That's the achievement I feel, building a place where people give their experience freely so others can take, or leave it, as suits them, and we're all richer for it.

Thank you all!

Mike
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: lil chris on November 16, 2020, 09:55:28 AM
I would like to add my congratulations Tank, well done. I just checked, I have been on here since October 2012, where has the time gone. This is the most friendly site I know, lots of free advice plus some banter. I have met up with Mick ( @Newportnobby (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=264) )and a few other members, and made some good friends on here and I feel privileged to be a member here. Chris keep safe everybody.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Calnefoxile on November 16, 2020, 10:13:15 AM

WOW!!!! 10 Years!!!!

This news made me check when I first registered, which was Sept 2011, so early on in NGF's gestation period. I must admit it's grown beyond all expectations, a much better place than, ahem, some other place  ;) ;) ;) which is what drew me over in the first place, that place is so full of the self important and know-it-alls where NGF doesn't seem to have so many of those types.

We've had some great meet-ups at TINGS and I've got to know a lot of people through this Forum, where we've helped each other out with information.

Long may it continue.....

Regards

Neal.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Delboy on November 16, 2020, 10:32:53 AM
Congratulations to Tank and all the support team on reaching a truly great milestone. Your efforts are really appreciated and a big shout out to all the members time and patience in helping we less knowledgeable folk make progress in this addictive hobby and for providing the best railway modelling forum available to mankind.
Long live the NGF. :beers:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: weave on November 16, 2020, 10:57:30 AM
HAPPY BIRTHDAY NGF and thank you Tank for starting it and keeping it going so brilliantly. Also thanks to all the Mods and others who help.

I joined in October 2011, apparently  :worried:, time flies by when you're having fun  :thumbsup:.

I knew absolutely nothing when I started about 10 years ago and found it very difficult to find help and advice, nearly giving up. Stumbled across the NGF one day and it was such a breath of fresh air especially for a total beginner.

I'm still not very good but know I can always learn more from the friendly members on here.

It's not just railways though. I'm not on any other Forums or any social media so the NGF is great to get away from 'BGT' or 'Strictly' when SWMBO's in charge of the remote, chatting about football, baseball and beer or bus stops when I can't sleep at 3am  :D I won't mention the jokes  :no:

Thanks again to all and here's to another 10.

Cheers, weave  :beers:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: nharding99 on November 16, 2020, 11:32:31 AM
Proud member since October 2012 :-)

Keep up the good work!

Thanks
Nigel H
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Newportnobby on November 16, 2020, 11:39:06 AM
'Twas May 2011 when I started inflicting myself on the members we had then so I've not reached the 10 years yet. I have enjoyed travelling around many, many shows/get togethers and meeting so many members. Sadly, over the years, a few have passed away :( It has been more than just a forum to me as, at TINGS and a few other shows, I have met some of our far flung members who travelled to Leamington or visited the UK and took the time to meet socially e.g. Bealman (life was never the same afterwards :laugh3:)
The forum ethic is just right and we all do our best to help each other where possible. I have learnt far more here than ploughing through books and ransacking t'interweb for the elusive answer to things. Certain limitations means I'm unable to do much than buy and plant but I consider myself very lucky to possess one of Dr Al's creations (+ had others fettled) and to have had weathering done on more than a few wagons by Mk1gtstu.
The outpouring of wishes/gifts from fellow members following my heart problem was just astonishing and helped me mend that much quicker. Some are more family to me than certain family members!
Bless you all
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: BRMan on November 16, 2020, 03:23:36 PM
I have not been a member for very long (18 months) but I am so glad to be a part of such a wonderful, warm, generous and friendly community.  Absolutely brilliant!

Cheers,

BR Man
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: SD35 on November 16, 2020, 04:27:48 PM
It's quite a remarkable interweb forum this one.

Like many others I'm sure, I've been a member of a number of forums which follow the same life cycle whther its sport, hobbies, music, etc:

- Start up with new members who don't know each other.
- Growth.
- Removal of a few trolls.
- A happy period.
- Cliques of like minded people forming.
- A touch of argy bargy with a high profile "rage quit" or two.
- People taking a bit of criticism personally and flouncing.
- A dominant clique of like minded people takes over the narrative by pouncing on any new members who, god forbid, dare to air their own contrary opinions.
- A residual membership of people who repeat the same stuff everyday.
- Finally...forum heat death.

This forum is as fresh as ever and its a credit to the people who run it and the constantly evolving creativity of the people who contrbute to it.  There can't be too many places where contributors get the same encouragement, help and praise whether its a rule 1 4x2 loop to run some trains or a huge exhibition standard masterpiece.  Maybe our hobby just attracts the nice kind of people.

Happy anniversary!  :)

Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: REGP on November 16, 2020, 07:09:58 PM
Thank you @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2)

I join in 2012 following a stroke the previous year, the friendly welcome, encouragement  and help I received is still typical of that given to all newbies to the hobby and is what has kept me in the hobby.

Thank you Mods for keeping it that way!

Ray



Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: ImpInaBox on November 16, 2020, 08:15:53 PM
10 years! Wow!  I hope it keeps going for at least another 10 then.

A relative newbie, I joined earlier this year not long before we all got locked down and exhibitions suddenly stopped so I've not met any of you in person.  But I still feel like I've made friends here and certainly had lots of help and encouragement as well as the best banter ontinterweb.  So thanks @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2)  - lang may yer lum reek!
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Foxhound on November 16, 2020, 10:05:48 PM
 :NGF:
Love it here, so welcoming, so helpful, so encouraging.
Tank, you've created something very special in this forum and it's a joy and privilege to be a member.
Cheers!
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: keithbythe sea on November 17, 2020, 10:01:52 AM
 :thankyousign: Brilliant forum. What more can be said!
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Alexjb on November 17, 2020, 11:14:58 AM
As someone new to the forum and the hobby in general I want to thank you for making and maintaining such an amazing place to get advice and exchange ideas. The community you have built here is wonderful!

:NGF:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: MinZaPint on November 17, 2020, 03:29:58 PM
Well I see that I joined in August 2011 and like other members I've thoroughly enjoyed being here, unfortunately I've not been doing much modelling (any) recently but continue to pop in to see what others are up to. The site just seems to run so smoothly which like other similar operations means there is a lot of work going on behind the scenes.  So @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2) many thanks for setting up the forum and getting an excellent team to help run it.
With best wishes for the future
Cheers David
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Airfix 27 RA on November 17, 2020, 07:06:28 PM
Brilliant  forum, great people, some great advice and help.
Thank you Chris.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: gc4946 on November 17, 2020, 10:10:38 PM
A bit late in responding ...

I joined in 2013, felt immediately welcome with my varying interests, and it's great that this forum has lasted this length of time thanks to Tank and all who made it possible.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: emjaybee on November 18, 2020, 12:31:51 AM
Sorry I'm a bit late to the party, been a busy week.

I was also late finding this Forum too. It's been a good number of years, but shorter than many of my forum friends. This is only the third forum I've frequented, one other was vehicle specific and the other was the 'other' model railway forum. Somebody earlier rather eloquently described the modus operandi of a lot of forums. The cliques, the tantrums, the prima donnas, the stagnation. Been there, witnessed that.

This place never gets old, it's never a chore dropping in, always a pleasure and invariably I learn something new each day. Granted, it's sometimes a irrelevant nugget, but many times it's an invaluable tip, trick, method or just a bit of information. I had a rough start on the forum, someone who no longer frequents was rather, well, rude and arrogant, and I thought my time on here would be short. But calm, reasoning voices steadied the ship and convinced me that this forum was different, and it is. It's much more than a model railway forum, it's a caring community. Members have rallied round when others have had a rough time, been there for others with compassion and care. Everyone has rough times, some more serious than others, granted, but I have been the recipient of the occasional PM when things in life aren't going smoothly and it's been very welcome.

I've also had the pleasure of meeting a number of the other members, both at the Fawley outing and at shows, characters the lot of'em! Once we get let out again I intend to make more of an effort to meet more of you, so that'll teach you. Many folks on here have been inspirational, encouraging me to expand my model skills from being a maker of kits, to being a basher of kits. I've still got a long way to go to match many of the 'star players' on here but I'll now give anything a go, safe in the knowledge that there's a raft of experience and help to back me up.

So, I'd like to say a huge thank-you to @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2) for creating this place, and to the 'Odd Mod Squad' for facilitating the day to day operations. I have, fortunately, only had a couple of minor brushes with them, and I think they do a sterling job in a forum with so many and varied personalities, rather you than me!

As a footnote, I'd just like to remember the late Paul Price, the guy who taught me you can NEVER have enough LMS locos, especially Jubilees. A legendary LMS man.

So, thanks everyone, and here's to the next ten years. May your track stay clean and your locos run smooth.

:beers:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: joe cassidy on November 18, 2020, 11:41:15 AM
I too miss Paul Price, especially as we now movng into his favourite time of the year, the brussels sprout season  :)
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: RailGooner on November 18, 2020, 12:36:35 PM
I defo miss Paul Price's banter on LMS Jubilees. I've vowed to myself that one day I'll get one in honour of a guy that I never met, but who entertained me enormously.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: mr magnolia on November 18, 2020, 05:35:47 PM
I've just checked and found that I landed here in April 2011. :uneasy:

I've thoroughly enjoyed the info and chat on here so many thanks to all!

shame I cant really point to over 9 years of layout construction and see enormous progress - too many hours spent watching the trains and reading the forum...

Donald
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: OffshoreAlan on November 19, 2020, 12:14:20 AM
Fabulous and Friendly Forum.

Thanks Tank, it's a creation of which you can be truly proud.

:thankyousign:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Papyrus on November 19, 2020, 12:10:23 PM
Quote from: mr magnolia on November 18, 2020, 05:35:47 PM

shame I cant really point to over 9 years of layout construction and see enormous progress - too many hours spent watching the trains and reading the forum...

Donald

My problem exactly...  :)

Cheers,

Chris
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: MARK1985 on November 19, 2020, 03:35:23 PM
Well done all , i wouldn't be where i am today with my modeling and hobby without this forum , it started me along the path of n gauge and I've enjoyed it ever since and met some amazing people i now class as close friends

keep up the awesome work

Mark

:NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: gavin_t on November 19, 2020, 09:42:30 PM
I have only been on here a year so a newbie compared to most.

I have found it to be a very friendly and informative forum. Served me very well coming in as a complete novice.
Certainly something to be said for a good old fashioned forum over facebook as well. Easier to keep track of things and creates more of a community feel.
I used to belong to some other forums in relation to other hobbies and they all died of death once facebook came on the scene. So good to see this one going strong.

Thanks to Tank and all involved, glad it popped up when I searched N gauge!  :thankyousign: :thankyousign: :thankyousign:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: joe cassidy on November 19, 2020, 10:21:18 PM
Quote from: MARK1985 on November 19, 2020, 03:35:23 PM
Well done all , i wouldn't be where i am today with my modeling and hobby without this forum 

I'm finding it hard to resist a reference to CJ in Reginald Perrin
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Flange Squeal on November 19, 2020, 10:53:47 PM
Any chance of an NGF 10th anniversary edition Peco wagon?
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: marco neri on November 20, 2020, 12:54:33 AM

Well done guys...well done.
Long live to the forum....and many congrats to Chris and other mods...


Marco
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: TrevL on November 20, 2020, 11:09:03 AM
Well I've been here for a little over 4 Years and must admit I come here muliple times a day, it's the nearest thing to "social meeja :D" I do.
It's been an enormous help after an almost 40 year layoff from N Gauge modelling, so a massive thanks to Chris and the team for all the work you guys put in, not forgetting all the the members either.
Heres to the next 10 years.
:beers:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Trainfish on November 20, 2020, 11:30:40 AM
Multiple times a day Trev? A lot of us only come on here once per day. How long that 'once' lasts is another matter though  :goggleeyes:

I don't do social media either, there just isn't time to while this forum exists!
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: dannyboy on November 20, 2020, 11:56:40 AM
Quote from: Ferkeltaxe on November 19, 2020, 10:53:47 PM
Any chance of an NGF 10th anniversary edition Peco wagon?
AND a mug (reply #38).  :)
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Newportnobby on November 20, 2020, 12:25:35 PM
NGF mugs are available in the merchandise (NGF Links > NGF shirts etc on the main toolbar) but are temporarily out of stock - unless @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2) has the odd one knocking about
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: dannyboy on November 20, 2020, 12:47:33 PM
Got the mug, got the t shirt, (I think), been there. We want a new mug, (and wagon).  :)
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Jim Easterbrook on November 20, 2020, 03:24:57 PM
Another newbie here, having not had any sort of model train until April this year. This forum has been an inspiration, mostly to spend money, and has saved many a mistake by answering questions I didn't even know I had.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: grumbeast on November 20, 2020, 07:03:02 PM
Been here on and off pretty much since the start.. congrats for a great forum.. have had tons of inspiration from here over the years

Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: gavin on November 21, 2020, 09:54:31 PM
Congratulations Tank,  had to go and look back at when you organised the first forum show at Riddlesdown.  Seems a long time ago now.   Well done on keeping the forum going and your contribution to our hobby.  Thanks Gavin...
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Chetcombe on November 22, 2020, 03:31:58 AM
Like many others I just checked when I joined the forum and it was November 21st 2011, so 9 years to the day!

I echo each and every comment in this thread. A huge thanks to @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2) for giving N Gauge a voice. And a huge thanks to everyone I have interacted with, your help and support has been immense and inspirational. Being based a long way from the UK, my opportunities to meet with forum members face to face has been limited. But even in farflung Pennsylvania, a couple of us have had a chance to meet up and help each other.

Here's to the next 10 years!
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Ashio on November 22, 2020, 12:26:30 PM
Here here. Well done for your venture and here's to the next 10!  :beers:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Skyline2uk on November 23, 2020, 11:22:23 AM
I know I have already posted on this thread but I wanted to add something else:

Yesterday I posted a request for info / possible purchase of some specific NEM couplings.

Within minutes two members replied offering their spares.

This morning the required couplings are in the post heading towards the Skyline residence. Free of charge.

This is probably the fourth time this has happened (I shall do what I always do, make a donation to the Forum) since I have been a member.

This is a great place.

Thanks @GScaleBruce (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=3603)
Thanks @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2)

:NGF:

Skyline2uk
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: acko22 on November 29, 2020, 03:33:09 AM
Well ten years, what can be said that hasn't already been said?

Apart from your hard work in setting up the forum @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2)  and the work of the mods has made the forum a complete success!

So all I can really say is congrats and thank you and for 10 more years "at least"!!
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: QLD KID on November 29, 2020, 06:43:20 AM
G'day Tank,

It is with great pleasure I offer my humble but sincere congratulations on achieving your 10 year milestone.
May I also wish everyone in your amazing and beautiful Country the best Christmas and New Year possible.
Let us Pray you rid yourselves of that Insidious and Vile COVID19 Disease in 2021 and Life returns to normal ASAP.
Cheers, :beers: from Australia. Denis.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Bealman on November 29, 2020, 06:46:35 AM
Hi there, Denis!

Wondered where you'd got to!  :wave:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: port perran on November 29, 2020, 08:39:38 AM
Quote from: QLD KID on November 29, 2020, 06:43:20 AM
G'day Tank,

It is with great pleasure I offer my humble but sincere congratulations on achieving your 10 year milestone.
May I also wish everyone in your amazing and beautiful Country the best Christmas and New Year possible.
Let us Pray you rid yourselves of that Insidious and Vile COVID19 Disease in 2021 and Life returns to normal ASAP.
Cheers, :beers: from Australia. Denis.

Nice to see you posting Dennis.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Leon on November 30, 2020, 06:48:14 PM
Tank, thanks for creating this site and for your dedication to it. I've wondered many times who this guy "Tank" is and how the Forum came into being. This thread has answered questions for which I'm grateful. I've read every post in the thread and was pleased to see many familiar ID's. My time following the Forum is rather limited, but it is a regular part of my day.

For my part. the NGF is far more valuable than the NGS, although the latter deserves support for their promotion of N Gauge. I have always assumed there to be some relationship between NGS and NGF, but apparently I was wrong.

There are too many people for me to acknowledge for the support provided to me so let me just say thank you to all.

Leon
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Tank on December 02, 2020, 08:25:23 PM
WOW!  So many amazing messages.   :thumbsup:

I'm sorry that I can't reply to you all, but I really want to say THANK YOU for all of your very kind words.  I'm overjoyed that so many of you are happy with the forum and the way it's run.  Of course, you're all a big part of that as well.....but I just have the big red button to kick out the naughty ones!   ;) ;D

A great idea about a 10 Year Anniversary wagon/van, and the mugs.  I'll certainly start making enquiries this weekend, and will design the mugs.

:NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Jim Easterbrook on December 02, 2020, 09:57:06 PM
Quote from: Tank on December 02, 2020, 08:25:23 PM
I just have the big red button to kick out the naughty ones!   ;) ;D

Does it start a clock that then counts down to one second before it stops?
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: emjaybee on December 02, 2020, 10:36:57 PM
Quote from: Tank on December 02, 2020, 08:25:23 PM
WOW!  So many amazing messages.   :thumbsup:

I'm sorry that I can't reply to you all, but I really want to say THANK YOU for all of your very kind words.  I'm overjoyed that so many of you are happy with the forum and the way it's run.  Of course, you're all a big part of that as well.....but I just have the big red button to kick out the naughty ones!   ;) ;D

A great idea about a 10 Year Anniversary wagon/van, and the mugs.  I'll certainly start making enquiries this weekend, and will design the mugs.

:NGaugersRule:

I like the idea of a commemorative wagon...

...as long as it's not a 'Aquafresh' version!
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Rowlie on December 08, 2020, 10:18:21 PM
Thank you @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2) for creating this forum and with the mods and contributors for making it a such a friendly, informative and helpful place. Here's to many more years of success for this forum.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: R Marshall on December 14, 2020, 02:50:32 PM
Tank,

It's great to have a Forum which is just for N Gauge.

It's well organised, so I can find the things I want pretty well.

Seasons Greetings,

Roy
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Swindon69 on December 14, 2020, 09:04:53 PM
As a total novice to the world of n gauge this forum has been great, very welcoming and helpful.
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Innovationgame on December 20, 2020, 04:07:38 PM
Gosh!  I've just checked and I've been a member for over seven years.  It's been brilliant!  All I can say is TANKS A MILLION!
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Tank on December 20, 2020, 09:39:10 PM
Many thanks again everyone.   :NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: DarrwestLU6 on December 23, 2020, 11:20:09 AM
May I also add my thanks to Tank (who I did have the pleasure of meeting once at the last NGSE exhibition) and all the mods including Mick, George, Ian, Nick, Ben , Paul. It's always great to see things run and managed by volunteers and the NGF is such a valuable forum, thanks for keeping it going!

Merry Christmas / Seasons Greetings to everyone!
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: Tank on June 10, 2021, 03:54:37 PM
Thanks all for your kind words.   :claphappy:

I've started a new thread for an NGF 10th Anniversary Wagon - https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=54166.msg714889#msg714889 (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=54166.msg714889#msg714889)
Title: Re: N Gauge Forum - 10 Year Anniversary!
Post by: keithbythe sea on June 24, 2021, 04:55:42 PM
Many apologies for being rather late to the party!

Congratulations Chris @Tank (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=2) and all of the mods and a big thank you.  :beers:

I joined in January 2016, my only forum, and I have enjoyed every bit of the last 5+ years on here. A great place to be, friendly, helpful, knowledgeable and tolerant of all types (and abilities) of modellers.

:thankyousign: