THE SANDOWN SYMPOSIUM – THE END OF AN ERA 

After a run of over 30 years the curtain has finally dropped on the Sandown Symposium. Founded by Albert Briggs and the Elmbridge Model Club ‘Sandown’ rapidly became the main event of the modelling year. It set the scene for the UK market place and showcased many new products, allowing our hobby to be brought to a wider cross-section of people.

Through the event, Elmbridge Model Club were able to achieve far more than the original objectives and now have sites for aircraft, marine and car pursuits. None of this, of course, could have happened without the support of the public and the traders and we would like to thank all those involved over the years. As the show grew, Elmbridge Model Club sought partnerships with modelling publishers and we owe thanks to Traplet Publications Ltd and it’s staff who took on the business side of the show at a time when new Health & Safety legislation made running any show much harder. The final decision to end Sandown was made in light of this new legislation and an ever-changing market place that could have put at risk the high standards of the event.

The Symposium leaves ‘many’ happy memories. Its enduring legacy is that it gave thousands of people, of all ages, a life long interest, great satisfaction and was an achievement we are all proud to have been a part of.

Posted 5 Sept 2006

Sandown 2006 review

As Sandown Model Symposium 2006 has now drawn to a close, we would like to thank all of the visitors, traders, flyers and helpers at the event who have made Sandown 2006 such a success and the UK’s premier model show.

The weekend saw some changeable weather but mercifully, the rain showers were minimal and the crowds enjoyed spectacular flying displays from a wide range of flyers and manufacturers/distributors. We were wowed by our guest flyer, world renowned pilot Christophe Paysant-Le Roux, who best is summed up with one word; formidable!

In addition to the aerial antics, visitors packed the halls eager to see the latest products from some of Europe’s leading distributors and manufacturers, and to grab a show bargain from over 80 trade stands.

Best Regards,

Tony Stephenson.

Pictures from this years show:

Tell us what you thought of the 2006 show:

2006 Comments

Great show, good flyers and stands Thanks

Loved the camaraderie of the pilots who did fly, they were great and willing to talk about their planes. The traders were in good spirits and there were many bargains to be had. Spent all my pocket money!! Thanks for the show.

Previous years' comments

After years of gradual decline (the show) seems at last to be heading towards the good old days!

... thanks for creating a perfect weekend, very professional and a very good day out, well done.

As always I thoroughly enjoyed the show.

A perfect family day out,we had a fabulous time.