We meet on the second Wednesday of every month at The Den, Cunningham Road, Westhoughton, BL5 2AN. 7:30pm until 10:00 pm.
The Bolton IPMS Model Show returned to the Toughsheet Stadium Premier Suite in January, bringing much needed winter modelling inspiration as the first major event of the 2026 season.
Despite a seven‑month planning period, the show was not without challenges. Late logistical issues including a match‑day “Fan Zone” occupying part of the venue the night before delayed our setup.
Thanks to the determination of our club volunteers, their families, and support from members of IPMS Lancashire, the show was fully prepared in time.
This year’s theme celebrated 80 years of Tamiya, recognising the company’s longstanding contribution to the hobby. Our club created an impressive three‑tier display featuring Tamiya scale models and radio‑controlled vehicles. Many exhibitors and visiting clubs also contributed outstanding Tamiya builds.
The show opened to a large, enthusiastic queue, and we were delighted to welcome all 1,200 visitors within 45 minutes, a new record. Inside, attendees enjoyed 74 displays and 41 traders, with Airfix and Revell showcasing their forthcoming 2026 releases, making our event the first public viewing opportunity.
The venue was brought to life by the 99th Garrison, whose Star Wars characters and R2 units entertained guests of all ages. Kit hunters were also rewarded with an excellent range of new and vintage kits at competitive prices.
We were pleased to host two international traders for the first time, Copper State Models and Dynamo Models, alongside an appearance by the Railnuts Team with Pete Waterman who were demonstrating scenic modelling applicable to diorama building.
The Hobby Company Limited, the UK importer for Tamiya, generously provided competition prizes, presented by Pete Waterman.
Winners were:
Best in Show – Dave Cope (Staffordshire Moorlands) for his Heinkel He 177
Best Display – IPMS Warrington
Best Tamiya Model – Spencer Pollard for his Tamiya F‑14D Tomcat
We were especially pleased to see increased attendance from young people, many leaving with new kits and big smiles.
Thank you to everyone who supported the event. We look forward to returning next year with more of the same but bigger and even better.
