The RSME Main Line Rallies are among the star events in the 5” gauge railway world and attract model engineers who prefer to run their locomotives or rolling stock in prototypical fashion. There is also a growing following among the general public who just like to watch the trains go by. The RSME rallies are organized by two Model-engineering societies, the RSME and the LMS (Lindsey Model Engineers) and take place on a weekend for two days in early May and three days over the August bank holiday.
The timetable starts at 09:00hrs and runs continually until 17.00hrs. During this time the Gilling railway is operated as per full size practice with steam and diesel outline models hauling time tabled trains around the double track main line. The track is controlled in the station area by a 30 lever signal box and automatic signals on the outer sections. A second 30 lever box controls operations in the Erimus Yard. See Signalling page Extensive shunting with 4 duty-pilot locos takes place in the three yards throughout the day with transfer locos taking stock from one yard to another as required to ensure correct train formations.
For entrants to the rally this is a chance to drive their locomotive on a superbly constructed track under conditions approaching the real thing, with fully interlocked semaphore signals controlling their every move. Training will be given to those who are not sure what the signalling system means, so that trains run safely. Just as with the full size, a passed stop signal means trouble. For those who like building coaches and wagons this is the opportunity to see them running under ideal conditions. A bonus is the chance to meet and make friends with those of a similar mind. Visitors can watch locomotives pulling scale trains in an ideal setting plus beautiful countryside all around. Refreshments are available for rally entrants and visitors each day of the rally.
Most participants come to Gilling for the period of the rally but some also make a week of it and either come early or stop late to enjoy the surrounding attractions of York, the NYMR railway, Whitby or Scarborough. There is space for tents for the duration of the rally itself and there are numerous B&B establishments in the surrounding area.
All entries must be 5” gauge scale models of locomotives or stock that ran or run on the British Railways System. Locomotives should be capable of staying in steam for at least an hour, as should diesel outline models regarding their battery capacity. Current boiler certificates are required, also wheel profiles, buffer and couplings should be to the current GL5 standards and driving truck footrests 1" above the rail-head. If in doubt ask. It also helps if locomotives do not deposit oil or water onto the track as scale length trains can be heavy and the track has gradients. Ash pans should be enclosed so that hot ash cannot be deposited on the track.