Collectors find items at model train swap meet

***image1***The Model Train Friends Westpfalz sponsor their 31st Model Train Swap Meet at the Haus des Bürgers in Ramstein-Miesenbach Sunday.

Exhibitors and clubs from throughout Germany and neighboring countries present everything dealing with model trains and accessories.

“Our model train swap meet is the biggest of its kind in southwest Germany,” said organizer Manfred Küster. “Again I wasn’t able to accept all requests for display tables, because we only have a certain space capacity.”

Organizers don’t only want the event to be a swap meet, they also want to make sure that unique items are on display. There will be an HO model of the Trans-Regio train with the crest of Ramstein-Miesenbach.

“We are very proud to to display for the first time a diesel locomotive with digital and diesel sound,” said Herr Küster.

***image2***Another attraction that lures many visitors each year is the miniature carnival set-up by Rolf and Ruth Dindorf. The couple created miniature models of almost every ride they’ve seen. Many light and sound effects make people think they are at a real carnival.

Like last year, the Model Car Club Mannheim will show a race-track, where children can test their driving skills and determine who is the fastest driver.
The restaurant in the Haus des Bürgers sponsors a model train café, where visitors can take a break.

Model train enthusiasts can buy, sell and swap trains and accessories, and get advice from experts.

There is a special test track, where the newly bought items can be tested right away. Besides new items there will be used locomotives, carriages, tracks, signals, houses, lamps, bridges and spare parts.

Also, dolls, tin toys, kinder eggs and other hobby items are on display.
The swap meet is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free public parking lots are  available.