Typically all members receive a mailing shot five times a year containing a Newsletter as well as technical data, hints and tips needed for construction and conversion. These are provided in the form of loose-leaf sheets, which are added to as circumstances permit to form the Society Manual.

The sheets published in the year a member joins and all those sent out while he remains a member are issued free, whilst new members obtain all current sheets on payment of the joining fee.

Area Groups and groups within existing model railway clubs can be found in many parts of the country. A selection of layouts from these and of private individuals are invited each year to form the basis of expoEM, an event that takes places usually three times a year.

The Society's national gathering in May has for many years taken place in Bletchley. Two regional shows are also held and in recent years have been focused in Yorkshire and in Hampshire. Each event comprises lectures; demonstrations and specialist trade stands.

On joining the Society a member receives

• The current newsletter and whilst stocks last all the back issues for the year.
• All current issues of the Society Manual sheets published to date including a set of colour coded wiring diagrams.
• The current price list and order form for goods available through the Trade Officer.
• A set of track and turnout drawings which form the basis of construction.
• Entrance to the expoEM events at reduced cost.

Many of the components used to build to 4mm fine scale standards can be obtained through local model shops and specialist suppliers. Workers in EM can use wheels such as those from Alan Gibson, Kean Maygib, Ultrascale, Sharman and Romford.

The conversion of many locomotives, both ready to run and kit constructed, is easily achieved by using longer axles and spacing washers between the wheels and the frames. Proprietary rolling stock can be changed for little more than the cost of new wheels.

The wheels and axles provided by the Society are a direct substitution for the proprietary wagon and coach ranges. In addition, the E.M. Gauge Society caters for those of its members who work to P4 standards where the track gauge is 18.83mm and a specific wheel profile must be used with tighter crossing flangeway and check-rail clearances. Obviously your track will have to be re-laid and the Society specialises in the provision of track building components. A set of full size track and turnout plans (either to EM or 18.83mm gauge) is given free to all members to form the basis of constructing trackwork and building jigs. Similarly a full set of Wiring Diagrams is given free at time of joining.

There are several plastic based plain track proprietary systems, which are also compatible with the hand built turnouts. Some systems can also provide the basic requirements for turnout construction. There are also various makes of copper clad trackwork etc.

• Technical Manual – Over 250 pages containing hints & tips to assist you in constructing or converting your models. (now issued on CD with option of printed copy). Click here to view a sample.
• Updates issued with Newsletter. Newsletters issued regularly throughout the year. Gives the Society latest news and updates. Useful sales section for members to sell and buy items. Click here to view a sample.
• Area Groups and groups within existing model railway clubs can be found in many parts of the country. Groups will extend a warm welcome to new members so you won’t feel alone with your problems.
• EMGS Events - Each year the Society runs shows. Currently we have the major one at Bracknell, with a second in Yorkshire. We are always hoping to improve and aim to make them some of the best shows in the country. As well as layouts, each event comprises lectures, demonstrations and specialist trade stands. Plus we have our AGM. Whilst on a smaller scale it is a useful place to shop and see what’s happening in the Society and have your say on how we run things. The annual modelling competition takes place at the AGM.
• Trade Sales – We stock many items at competitive prices to assist you with your hobby. Our Trade Office is a good source of knowledge and is ready to advise on what you need to convert your stock or build the track. We do offer a mail order service to our members.