We need your help. We’ve been nominated for Hornby Hobbies' Model Shop of the Year! This new award programme celebrates independent shops like ours. We've won a few awards over the years but this one would mean an awful lot to us.
If you can, please take a few minutes to vote for us by clicking here. If you've already voted - THANK YOU!
“We’re very thankful for our loyal customers who have supported us over the years,” says Paul Boyland, owner of Chester Model Centre. “It would be a real honour to bring national recognition to Chester by winning Hornby Model Shop of the Year 2025. Running an independent business is no easy feat but we’re grateful to have kept our doors open in Chester for over a decade now. Winning this industry award would mean a lot to us and would really highlight the importance of independent shops like ours in bringing people together.”
Lindsay, Paul and Mark Boyland - Chester Model Centre is a family owned hobby shop. Credit Suzanne St Clare
Hornby Hobbies, renowned for iconic brands like Hornby, Scalextric, Humbrol, and Corgi, launched the Model Shop of the Year award to celebrate independent retailers that play a vital role in keeping hobbies alive and accessible. These shops are recognised not only for their products but for creating welcoming environments and inspiring hobbyists across the UK.
“One thing our team does really well is to break down barriers that might prevent people, especially children and young people, from engaging with and enjoying hobbies,” adds Boyland. “We are extremely proud to have played such a big role in bringing the Making Tracks exhibition to Chester for 4 years on the run now. It’s been fantastic for the sector and for our city centre.”
“At Hornby Hobbies, we recognise how important these retailers are, not only to our industry but to communities around the UK,” said Shaun Dubberley, Group Sales Director at Hornby Hobbies. “Our Model Shop of the Year awards are about celebrating their contributions and helping them grow even stronger.”
Five finalists will be announced in December, and the overall winner of Model Shop of the Year will be revealed in February 2025. The winner will receive a substantial promotional package, including a prize in Hornby products, a professional photoshoot, and extensive social media support. This would give Chester Model Centre a powerful platform to reach more hobby enthusiasts and continue to thrive as a high street, bricks and mortar business.
VOTE NOW - Voting for Hornby Model Shop of the Year closes December 13th
Stay up to date with our latest blogs, products and news by signing up for our newsletter via our homepage (scroll to the bottom).
And be sure to follow @ChesterModelCentre on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for updates.