Peter Gentle

[Bob]

Some very sad news folks.
Peter Gentle, the master 3mm modeller passed away this morning.
Peter had been suffering from ill health for some time but readers of the late lamented Model Railway Constructor in it's final issues will be familiar with his inspirational layout "Mullion".
Easily one of the very best 3mm layouts ever it was preceded by "Minsterley" which was also revamped after Mullion was sold. His shed layout was featured in Model Rail several years ago and always served as an inspiration since I first visited it almost 40 years ago.
He had contributed several buildings to the vale scene at Pendon and I think I'm correct in saying that a couple of the Bachmann Pendon buildings are from his models.
I shall miss a very dear friend and mentor.

Bob

 

[queensquare]

That's very sad news, a truly inspirational modeller.

Jerry

 

[mintri]

I echo those sentiments Bob. Truly one of lifes Gentlemen and someone it was always a pleasure to discuss things with. My condolences to Martin and his family also.
Steve

 

[Bob]

Going through some of the many model railway shots I've taken I found these showing one of Peter's final buildings in 3mm scale.
Those who know the area will immediately recognize it as being Cirencester Town...but with subtle changes.


This view was impossible when the building was in situ on the layout as it faced the corner.



These chimney pots give some indication of the workmanship. I'd be delighted with these but Peter was concerned because he was beginning to lose the ability to do detailed work by this time....you'd never guess to look at this though.

 

[mintri]

If I remember correctly Bob, Peter also was behind the buildings on Peter Whites Masham? I am sure you will correct me if i'm Wrong.
Steve

 

[Bob]

You're quite correct there Steve.

For me though, his modelling zenith was Mullion, looked fantastic, full of atmosphere and ran beautifully.
I never took any pictures of it though and I do regret that. I do have a VHS video of it (one of only 3 copies made) filmed by the late Bob Cross and must get it transferred to DVD.

 

[mintri]

If you get it onto DVD can I beg a copy too please.
Steve

 

[Bob]

Sure, no problem. Happy to oblige.

 

[Simon]

Very sad news, I have enjoyed watching his models over the years, including the excellent Mullion, and it was always a pleasure to have a conversation with Peter.

Simon

 

[S7BcSR]

Having been away I only learned of Peter's passing last night. I can confirm that Peter not only built for Pendon but was also a rota volunteer for many years until he felt that it was too much to come regularly to the museum. He was such a gentleman and I always enjoyed my conversations/discussions with him. He was always willing to offer advice and suggestions and I believe my modelling benefited from suggestions he made.

Wonderful 3mm layouts which one could stand in front of for ages and admire everything about them, they will be much missed as will Peter.

Condolences to family and friends.

Rob

 

[dltaylor]

Very sad news about Peter; a true gent and a fine modeller. I admired Mullion for several years.
Dave.

 

[Nettlebridge]

It was Peter's Mullion layout that first brought 3mm scale to my attention. My young
son and I spent hours back in the 80s, watching and chatting with him.
Several years later - my son had grown about three feet taller - we bumped into
Peter again when he was operating the Dartmoor layout at Pendon. He immediately
recognised us and greeted us as long lost friends. Happy memories.
A true gentle man and one of my modelling heroes.

Noel