Ron Clayson

Ron Clayson obituary, 2005

The recent sad loss of Ron Clayson will be felt throughout the vintage model railway hobby.

Ron, with his electrical engineering background and connection with the railways, started collecting 00 and 0 gauge electric trains at a time when such items were very cheap and could be tracked down through local second-hand shops, specialised model shops such as the legendary John Procter, and even the neighbour down the street.

Apart from having a wonderful collection, Ron developed a great skill in repairing and rebuilding mechanisms to keep these lovely old treasures running. He even made replacement parts and restored the most battered of models.

Ron's help was invaluable in the early setup days of Brighton Toy and Model Museum, wiring up the large centrepiece O gauge layout.

Chris Littledale, the Museum Founder, also has fond memories of his involvement with the Great Vintage Model Railway shows at the British Engineerium. He will indeed be sadly missed as will his exhibition layouts. The Museum extends its deepest sympathy to his son Trevor and all those he has left behind.