Family-owned store, Chester Model Centre, has been nominated for Hornby Hobbies' Model Shop of the Year awards, an initiative designed to recognise and celebrate outstanding independent model shops across the UK.

In December, five finalists will be announced, with the overall winner of Model Shop of the Year revealed in the new year. 

Paul Boyland, owner of Chester Model Centre said: "We're very thankful for our loyal customers who have supported us over the years. 

"It would be a real honour to bring national recognition to Chester. 

"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."

Paul Boyland, owner of Chester Model Centre (Image via: Chester Model Centre)

The prize for the winner includes a substantial promotional package, a prize in Hornby products, a professional photoshoot and extensive social media support, which would provide a strong platform for the independent business to thrive. 

CMS moved to Chester city centre in 2013, after many years of trading at toy fairs, swap meets and model railway exhibitions. 

Describing the last few years of trading, Paul said: "The uncertainties facing the high street were very real, and none of us knew what the future held.

"I focused on what mattered most to our customers and the things we could control. 

"We improved our website, social media channels and mail order system so people could access our products and advice, even if they couldn't make it to Chester.

A real point of pride for Paul was their strong involvement in bringing Making Tracks to Chester for the first time, in the summer of 2020. 

The entrance to Chester Model Centre on Bridge Street East Row (Image via: Chester Model Centre)

He explained: "We know how isolated so many people were and that they needed a safe and welcoming space to come together and enjoy model trains.

"We might not be the shiniest or most polished shop, but everyone is welcome here. 

"Just as importantly, we try to inspire children and young people to explore the model trains and many other hobbies, ensuring they thrive for generations to come."

In 2022, Chester Model Centre was a runner up for Best Independent Retailer in the Chester BID Customer Service Awards, and in 2023 they secured Best Model Train Shop of the year, at the SME Awards. 

Chester Model Centre interior stairwell (Image via: Chester Model Centre)

Reflecting on the store, Paul said: "We're constantly evolving our stock and pricing to match our customers' interests. 

"Anyone who comes through our doors is free to explore at their own pace; our shop is a bit of an Aladdin's cave!

"I feel incredibly fortunate to have such a knowledgeable team and loyal customers. We're lucky to be part of a fantastic business community here in Chester."

Chester Model Centre also does servicing and repairs on model trains, alongside selling new and hard to find secondhand items.

Voting closes 13 Dec, you can vote for Chester Model Centre in Hornby Hobbies' Model Shop of the Year awards here. 

You can also find their website here.