GREENOCK'S much-loved model railway exhibition has hit the buffers after being made homeless — with organisers now in a race against time to get the event back on track.

They've had to steam into a search for a new venue after the Lyle Kirk — their host destination for the last seven events — became unavailable.

Now it's feared that the cherished exhibition — which has been missed for the last two years due to Covid — could be shunted to the sidings if a solution is not quickly found.

Brian Thomson, of the Greenock & District Model Railway Club, explained: "The Lyle Kirk Sunday services were held at Finnart St Paul's during the exhibition but that's now not fit for use.

"We've enquired about various alternative premises but so far we've drawn a blank.

"At the moment as things stand the show won't go on, and that's sad because we've already been away for the last two years."

The exhibition is due to take place in October but, because various other model railway clubs put large sets together and travel to Greenock to take part, a new venue has to be found by June.

It has been an institution in Greenock since the early 1980s and been hosted in a number of locations over the years, including the town hall.

Award-winning modeller Brian — who won the best in show prize at the recent Model Rail Scotland event in Glasgow — said: "The other clubs, Perth, Cupar, Ayr and Kyle from Irvine enjoy coming here.

"As well as the enjoyment of being part of it, the food at Lyle Kirk was a big draw — the apple tart went down a bomb.

"But it's a really family-orientated, very friendly event that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

"We always have a special layout for the children so they can have a shot, and they often have a go on the larger layouts as well.

"We hope that Tele readers rally to the cause and help us find a venue so that we can put on another great exhibition for the public."

The club meets at Fort Matilda Station between 7.30pm and 10pm every Tuesday and Friday evening, and new members are welcome.

If you can help find a new place for the exhibition send an email to secretary@greenockmrc.co.uk