MODEL train enthusiasts have vowed their club will not be derailed after being told to quit their home of 20 years.

Huddersfield Railway Modellers have met at roomy premises in Moor Road Mills in Meltham for two decades.

But they have been told by the building's owners, Meltham Fabrications, they must move out by February so the property can be sold.

Club members are now desperately looking for a large, affordable long-term base.

"So far we have drawn a blank," said chairman and founder Rodger Schofield.

"Much that possibly appears to be available is either unsuitable or far too costly for us."

He added: "If anyone can help us in any way, we would be delighted to hear from them."

News of the notice to quit came just weeks before the group's popular annual exhibition, which this year takes place at Holmfirth Civic Hall on Saturday and Sunday.

"The relocation costs alone will be a major headache for us, so it is vital that our annual exhibition is a success this year," added Mr Schofield.

"The show deserves to do well, but the best result would be an offer of a new home for the local railway modellers."

The group of about 36 enthusiasts is looking for premises measuring about 60ft by 50ft.

The space would be used for storing and displaying the group's large layouts.

Member Mr Geoff Munday said it was little surprise their home was being sold, in the light of mill conversions around the region.

"Many of us thought it would be ripe for development one day," added Mr Munday

So far, the group has looked at about three premises around Kirklees, none of which was suitable.

But members are confident they will find a new home and carry on the heritage of the successful club.

Huddersfield Railway Modellers were founded in 1967.

Anyone who knows of premises suitable for the group can phone either 01484 316007 or 01484 308461.

* The club's exhibition at Holmfirth - called ModelRail 2003 - will feature 14 layouts.

It opens between 10am and 6pm on Saturday and 10pm and 5pm on Sunday.

The modellers are celebrating an invitation to next year's Railfest 2004 at the National Railway Museum in York, marking the 200h anniversary of the steam train.

The ``live steam" Nant Mawr layout is the only model railway layout to be invited to the show.