Model railways have been a massive part of Mike Belham’s life. He first started the popular hobby when he was 10-years-old and has been fascinated with it ever since.
And when lockdown struck costing Mike his job as a sound engineer, he decided to take a leap of faith and turn his passion into a business.
He opened MPB Model Supplies in Droitwich Spa, a small, characterful town located north of Worcester in Worcestershire’s Vale & Spa, earlier this year.
Selling everything from trees to track and people to engines, the shop has everything a model railway enthusiast could want. And if it’s not in stock, Mike is happy to order it in.
“During the lockdowns many people rediscovered their hobbies, so I thought ‘now’s the time do this’,” he said.
Unlike most model railway shops you won’t just find it stacked wall to wall with products. Mike is continuing his love of the hobby by working on a new layout which is on display in the shop.
It’s inspired by his own real-life experience working on steam railways from the age of 16, which saw him go on to become a qualified fireman and signalman.
“What sets us apart from shopping online is the knowledge and advice I can offer. I’ve worked with trains all my life so I can talk about how it’s done in real life and help people replicate this in their models. Even if you’re not ready to buy something, pop in and check us out because I’m always happy to chat,” he said.
“Interests in trains span generations. We have young dads coming in with young children and people in their 80s and 90s. They’re always excited to see a demo of the set-up we have in store. I love meeting new people who walk through the door and being able to share my passion for model railways.”
If you’re a model railway enthusiast or interested in getting into the hobby then pay MPB Model Supplies a visit in St Andrew Street, next to St Andrew’s Shopping Centre.
Read more independent businesses’ stories by visiting our blog.
