Steve Abbey

I feel like I've been modelling all my life! I remember helping my dad to build an Airfix 'Silver City' Bristol Freighter. Buying new kits every week from Woolies and the local model shop from 2/-. (For all you youngsters, that's 2 shillings or 10 pence in real money). Making balsa battleships; receiving all sorts of models from Aunts and Uncles at Christmas and birthdays. Building cardboard dockyards stuck with flour and water paste on the kitchen table. The annual family pilgrimage to RAF Benson at Home.

My first conversion was a scud launcher, following instructions from Airfix magazine, in my early teens. I was given a Tamiya Chieftain for getting into Grammar school! As you can see, I was encouraged to model, both at home and after joining the ATC. I joined the IPMS whilst at school, didn't get any encouragement, so didn't bother to rejoin (until much later) The modelling slowed down a bit whilst at college, but I kept my hand in.

The International Plastic Modellers Society (IPMS) Connection

Armed with a brand new honours degree certificate, I broke into the jobs market (more money to convert to plastic insulation) and became a member of staff in the ATC (close up pictures of aircraft!) A group of us contacted the IPMS to put on a stand at the Nationals up at Donnington Park. This time, with much encouragement, we formed The Air Cadet Group IPMS, which we recently changed to The Earley Risers. Last year we all pulled together and won The Jessie Wright Trophy, awarded to the Best Club Stand at Scale Model World 2005.

Why do I make Models?

I have always been fascinated by how things work, certainly anything Mechanical has always been of a great interest. A career in art, combined with a passion for aircraft, (but without the bank balance to indulge in 1 to 1 scale!), the die was cast. I always feel to be a need to 'add something different' to my models; whether a new interior, or just a different paint and weather job.

Clubland!

Since modelling with other people, I have benefited from other people's knowledge and skills. I have been encouraged to try something a little further from my ‘modelling comfort zone'. I have met many good friends and interesting acquaintances. I have certainly enjoyed myself along the way!