No rail strikes are planned for this weekend, which is a mercy as Tolworth Showtrain, the popular model railway exhibition at Tolworth Recreation Centre, can go full steam ahead.

If you thought model train layouts were rather lonely affairs confined to attics, think again. The event on Sat Nov 12 and Sun Nov 13 represents teamwork at its finest, collecting together a remarkable mix of UK and overseas model circuits, with the chance to get on the controls and guide trains around the tracks.

More than 20 working layouts and displays are being brought along by clubs, societies and individuals from across the country, and there are also shoals of traders at stands selling every conceivable thing, from the smallest piece of scenery to the grandest of steam engines.

The layouts represent town and country scenes of British railways throughout the ages of steam and diesel, but also of railways in Germany and America. Many are a wonderful wallow in nostalgia.

They include Edward’s Junction and Thomas End, created by show organisers Hampton Court Model Railway Society, which can be operated by children.

Experienced demonstrators will be available to give hands-on tuition in scenic modelling skills.

Some of the detail in the more intricate layouts has to be seen to be believed, representing hours and hours of patient miniaturised working.

The show is spread across three halls at the centre in Fullers Way North, Tolworth, with tickets £9 for adults and £3 for children, and a deal on Sunday admitting one child free with every paying adult. Family tickets are £19.

The organisers have laid on a free bus from Surbiton Station to the exhibition (timetable and further details at www.tolworthshowtrain.co.uk). Free parking.