The following photographs were taken at the 100th Model Engineering Exhibition held at Olympia in Jan  98).  They cover only a small sample of the huge array of stalls and exhibits on show.  The adjacent hall was dedicated entirely to RC model aircraft.  One stall I didn't photograph (too busy buying things) was that of Proops Educational Supplies run by Mr Proops senior and his equally ancient staff.  Mr Proops used to run a wonderful emporium of completely irresistible and almost completely useless electronic and mechanical government surplus items in Tottenham Court Road in London.  Many of his customers have known him for 30 years or more.  I once bought a radar display from a Lancaster bomber there (advertised as making a useful oscilloscope).  Needless to say it never did and joined the mountain of similar items in my garage!  Mr Proops gave his business to his sons I believe and it still tades under the Proops name.  However he got bored with being retired and started Proops Educational supplies which sells such things as motors, surgical instruments ("useful for PCB work and lifting ingots out of the foundry"), washing machine pumps and assorted incredible bargains (if only you can find a use for them).  I hope he attends many more shows.

Main Hall, a similar sized hall to the left of this picture was given over entirely to model aircraft flying.

Water tank for model boats - note the fans on the right to provide wind for the sailing boats.

The model shown above and to the left was quite amazing in its detail and finish.  It featured in the latest Model Engineering Workshop.

Working model of the German wartime Enigma code machine.

Fertiliser spreader

I've heard of model boats but this is ridiculous

I want it for Christmas!!! (Nick Seinstra - age 4 and an avid steam  engine enthusiast.)

The model railway ran around the balcony surrounding the main hall.

A vast array of Stirling Cycle Engines

Lots of things to buy.

A lathe from the Victorian era.

Wimhurst machine - it worked as well!!