PECO Model Railways has announced a new competition to honor 200 years of British railways. RAIL200 is open to modelers based in the U.K., with two simultaneous competitions focusing on different disciplines of model railroading.
A press release shared with Model Railroader states: “The RAIL200 Competition aims to celebrate two centuries of railway heritage by engaging both seasoned and novice modellers, and of all ages. Participants do not need prior experience in railway modelling, making this an inclusive opportunity for anyone that would like to take part and try their hand in modelling.”
The first competition, described in the press release as a “Modular competition,” requires modelers to “(create) a layout using a OO gauge piece of track provided by PECO. Strict guidelines ensure compatibility among entries, enabling the finalists’ layouts to be linked-together into a larger, cohesive exhibition at a special venue, to be announced.”
The second competition, described as the “Standalone competition,” gives modelers more freedom, allowing them to “craft a scenic display in any scale or gauge, focusing solely on scenic creativity and imaginative design. Dioramas are standalone pieces and are not required to be connected operationally with other layouts.”
Participants are required to purchase a specially designed RAIL200 baseboard, which grants automatic entrance to the competition.
Finalists in both competitions will be featured in an issue of Railway Modeller. Prizes will be awarded to winners and runners-up in both competitions. The competition is open now, with a submission deadline of September 30th, 2025.
More details on the competition can be found by clicking here.
