We aim to cater for all aspects of small scale narrow gauge railway modelling, both for the beginner and the experienced modeller alike, for the scratch-builder, the kit builder and the modeller who prefers proprietary ready to run equipment. Whether you are an active modeller or an armchair modeller, you will find a welcome in the 009 SOCIETY.
There are a large variety of benefits from being a member of the 009 SOCIETY which include:
- our monthly journal, 009 News, with a wide variety of articles about modelling and prototypes, reviews of new items, Society happenings, etc.
- affiliated local groups which members can join to meet with like-minded people in their own area
- access to the online shop containing second hand modelling items (pre-owned models, chassis, kits) as well as the Society’s own range of kits, etc.
- discounts on a range of new modelling items purchased from suppliers such as Dundas Models
- access to the archive of 20 years backnumbers of 009 News with much helpful information and inspiration
The majority of our members work in 00 (1:76) or H0 (1:87) scales. By using a track gauge of 9mm they are able to model narrow gauge railways with prototype gauges between 1’10” and 2’6″ (that is 570mm and 760mm). The use of one common track gauge has the advantage that members can operate their 009 and HOe rolling stock on other layouts. Some of our members who scratch-built chassis use exact scale gauges to represent particular railways and a few use Z gauge equipment to represent 18″ gauge prototypes. An increasing number of our members are using 12mm gauge track and equipment to model prototype railways with gauges of 3’0″ (00 scale) and 1 metre (HO), with a number using HOn3 (10.5mm gauge) for American 3′ gauge lines.
Modelling interests vary considerably. Many members follow British narrow gauge practice, encapsulating the wide variety of railways to be found, from the small and often obscure mineral and industrial lines to such major “main line” undertakings as the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway. Some model the Irish or Manx 3-foot gauge prototypes on 12mm gauge. Also, a large number of our members’ interests lie further afield e.g. in the secondary lines of France or Spain perhaps, or the mountain “main lines” of Switzerland or Austria. American narrow gauge railways hold a particular fascination for many of our members, whilst others model the British colonial narrow gauge lines. Others model freelance narrow gauge layouts. Whatever your narrow gauge interests, you will find that the 009 SOCIETY has something to offer you.
As mentioned above, we publish our own journal, 009 News, once a month. This is a comprehensive magazine containing news and views, hints and tips, drawings and articles on all aspects of small scale narrow gauge modelling including 009, HOe and HOn30. It usually has some colour pages. The 009 News is posted direct to each member or can be digitally delivered in PDF format for our overseas members.
There is an annual membership fee and we welcome applications from all over the world. Membership is valid for 12 months and runs for a year from the date of joining.
The 009 SOCIETY has a number of local groups, both in the UK and overseas, where members meet to discuss modelling matters, show their models and enjoy a social gathering with like-minded modellers. Some groups have exhibition layouts which are shown regularly at the various model railway exhibitions around the country. Details of group activities are reported in the 009 News.