A LOOK AT SMALLSPACE 8

Here's a few photos from last weekend's Spacespace modellers event which took place in the picturesque village of Hanslope near. Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire.

Most classic TV and cinema sci-fi was represented, including Doctor Who, Thunderbirds, as well as Star Wars, Alien  and even Godzilla, with monster models courtesy of the I.P.M.S. (U.K.) Sci-fi & Fantasy Group.

There was plenty of exhibits, and as it's coming up to the half centenary of the lunar landing there was a few examples of Apollo related models, and in particular the lunar lander, itself.

The day also marked what would have been Jon Pertwee's 100 birthday, with third Doctor Who fan and lookalike, Scott Goodman in attendance.

There was also a small Dalek force threatening extermination, however this plucky young girl was having none of it as she bravely challenged the metal invader!

An auction was held in the memory of Smallspace supporter and replica prop maker, Richard Bailey . Former BBC model effects man and co- organiser of Smallspace Mat Irvine ran the auction raising over £3000 for the chosen charity.

Janet Elizabeth Black brought along her 1/3 scale cyberman figures based on comic strips in Doctor Who Weekly, and the art of Steve Dillon and David Lloyd

She also brought along figures inspired by the Tom Baker Doctor Who story, The Robots of Death, and reworked using Japanese pop culture.

An excellent replica of a Federation Pursuit Ship as seen in 'Blake's Seven'. As Mat Irvine kindly commented below this great looking model was scratch built by Gary R.Welsh. Mat describes it as a Federation 'Servalan Ship' ship, which Mat himself actually designed and modified from the brick red Pursuit Ships.

There was a lot more going on. Here's a giant Martian War Machine looming over the assembled throng!

Apart from the excellent displays, another good reason for making the trip to Smallspace in getting a chance to meet up and chat with friends and fellow enthusiasts in person. There's also a few trade counters there, selling model accessories and kits. Tony James, formally of Comet Miniatures brought along a few  goodies. I ended up buying a reissued version of the old Revel 'Everything is Go' kit, now produced by Atlantis.

I also bought a rather nice Maximillian 3D model from Giblets Creations who do 3D design. They do quite a few Dan Dare and Gerry Anderson models too. The photo above shows a figure from, I think Who Killed Roger Rabbit. I understand the supporting framework is removed during the final finishing of the model. I can see a time when most modellers will have a 3D printer as they become more popular and less expensive.

So there's a teaser of what went on. Some super displays, nice people and a great venue. More photos to come.