AssetID: 54666943
Headline: All Aboard! Meet The 92-Year-Old Care Home Resident Who Turned A Spare Room Into A Miniature Railway Wonderland
Caption: A care home in Kent has become the unexpected setting for a miniature railway marvel – thanks to the creativity and steady hands of one very special resident. David Thompson, 92, has spent the past two years transforming an unused room at Edenbridge Manor Care Home into a spectacular model railway layout – and it's now become the most talked-about spot in the entire home. Originally from the quaint village of Evenley in Northamptonshire, the retired accountant and company secretary began the intricate project after moving into the Avery Healthcare-run facility in 2023 with his wife Olive. The couple live together in one of the home's companion suites, designed to help couples stay together in their later years. But while many might spend their golden years taking it easy, David had other plans. Fuelled by a lifelong interest in craftsmanship and a desire to create something meaningful, he set about building what is now a thriving miniature world. “A bricklayer can walk down the street and see the walls they’ve built,” David explained. “An accountant doesn’t get to do that. I wanted to leave something behind.” What he’s left is nothing short of extraordinary. From hand-built scenery and a meticulously crafted Pullman Express circling the tracks, to a tiny townscape that fellow residents are invited to help design, David's railway room has become a beacon of creativity and connection within the home. “It’s more than just trains, it’s a place where people connect,” he said. “I love seeing others enjoying it. It brings back memories for many, and it’s wonderful to share something that brings people together.” Home Manager Esther Adams couldn’t agree more. “It really captures people’s imaginations,” she said. “We often hear visitors reminiscing about their childhood train sets. It’s lovely to see the joy it sparks.” The room has become such a highlight that it’s now featured on official tours for prospective residents and their families – and it’s even sparked acts of kindness from visitors. “We’ve even received generous donations from visitors inspired by the railway room,” David revealed. “It’s lovely to know people enjoy it so much they want to contribute.” But the trains are only part of the story. David has also filled the space with a collection of hand-built models, from a detailed replica of the Titanic and a musical 3D Ferris wheel to radio-controlled trucks – all made with the same attention to detail and love. There's also a poignant tribute in the room to fellow resident and co-founder of the railway, Malcolm Hill, who passed away in November 2024. A custom plaque now stands in his honour. “As far as the layout goes, we’re always evolving it,” David shared. “The Pullman Express has made countless circuits, and now we’re planning a small-town setup around the track.” Esther added, “David’s railway room has really added something special to the home. It’s a place where residents come together, share stories, get creative, and make lasting connections. It’s such a big part of our community now.” Fellow resident Colin Bentley put it best: “It’s fantastic! A great reminder of our childhoods.” And David shows no signs of slowing down. He still spends hours tinkering with his trains and welcomes anyone for a chat – or even a game of dominoes, cribbage or cards – right by the tracks.
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