Mr Hiroshi Kato of KATO Precision Railway Models to attend TINGS

According to show organisers, Meridian Exhibitions, Mr Hiroshi Kato of KATO Precision Railway Models will be attending the show this year on both days.

It is possible he may even have something of British origin with him and it will be a great opportunity for British modellers to meet possibly the most influential man in N Scale modelling worldwide.

KATO was established in 1957 and released their first C50 N gauge Japanese steam locomotive model in 1965. Since then they have been producing N and HO gauge locomotives, cars, trains and UNITRACK in Japan. Mr Kato established KATO USA, INC. in 1986 in a suburb of Chicago.

In a recent interview, Mr Kato commented that he wished to expand the firm's selection of British models, especially in N Gauge. Personally, he is a fan of the new Azuma train and has been looking at it as a potential prototype, although nothing is confirmed as yet. However, as the Japanese firm HITACHI builds the train, he would expect strong support from Japanese N Gauge modellers in addition to UK modellers.

No stranger to the UK, Mr Kato recognises we are the birthplace of almost all cultural things in the world including the railroad hobby. 10 years ago, he took the opportunity to stay in Porthmadog to visit Ffestiniog Railway and Boston Lodge engine shed, and drive a steam locomotive. Perhaps another possible hint at future projects?

International N Gauge Show website