ALMOST two decades after gluing the first tiny tracks to a wooden board, Mick Simpson's miniature railway scene has won the admiration of fellow model railway enthusiasts.

Mr Simpson, from Chester-le-Street, started creating the layout, based on British railways of 1957 to 1962, 19 years ago, and is constantly adding new features.

Most recently, he created a circular road across a railway bridge, along which a red bus travels.

Though the scene is an imaginary line, Mr Simpson has been inspired by the region's railways, recreating Howden-on-Tyne station house, Fence Houses signal cabin and Belmont junction cottages.

At the weekend, the layout was awarded two prizes at Bishop Auckland Railway Show, named the exhibitors' and public's choice.

He said: "It is just a hobby for me, though a lot of work has gone into it.

"Because it is built to such a small scale, 2mm to the foot, almost everything has been made from scratch.

"I don't want praise, in fact it is a little embarrassing, but it is nice that people like and appreciate it."

The exhibition was held at The Grand Hotel, in South Church Road, and featured nine layouts.