MECCANO enthusiasts displayed the range and flexibility of the traditional construction kit in a popular exhibition at the weekend.

Members of the North-East Meccano Society created an array of models, including a display of famous buildings from around the world.

Visitors to Beamish Museum, near Stanley, County Durham, saw scale versions of London's Tower Bridge, The Empire State Building, in New York, and local landmarks such as the Tyne Bridge and Penshaw Monument.

Society members displayed creations, mostly using the older metal form of the construction kit, which was devised by Frank Hornby in 1901 to amuse his two sons.

Modeller Ian Mordue, of Meadowfield, near Durham, said the models showed what could be achieved with Meccano.

He said: "Although it was invented as a toy, the potential was soon discovered by adult modellers of the complex reproductions of machinery which can be achieved.

"It is a great thing for kids to get them into engineering and to develop manual dexterity."

Museum director Miriam Harte said the Meccano displays were always among Beamish's most popular exhibitions. She said: "We now have it twice during the year. It really is fascinating to see what can be created."

For information about joining the society, call John Herdman on 0191-488 6863.

Published: 18/04/2005