Meet Iwan WrexRail

From a Wooden Train to WrexRail 

Hi, I'm Iwan, founder of WrexRail.

Railways have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My passion started when I was just six months old, after getting my very first wooden train. From that moment on, trains became more than a toy. They became a lifelong fascination.

For my fifth birthday, my Nain and Taid bought me my first Hornby train set for my bedroom. That first starter set opened up a whole new world. Since then, I've spent countless hours building layouts, learning new modelling techniques and sharing the hobby with my Taid, who has taught me so much along the way.

Today I mainly model in OO gauge, although I also have working N gauge and G gauge layouts. My interest in railways extends beyond my own layouts. I help maintain the OO gauge, Dee Valley Railway layout at Corwen Museum as well as riding the many heritage locomotives that frequent the Llangollen to Corwen line. One of my favourite trains is the Advanced Passenger Train (APT), which I regularly visit at Crewe Heritage Centre.

In 2026, I completed driver and signalling training and now drive a 5-inch gauge Planet locomotive. The Gresford Model Engineers have given me hands-on experience of an alternative railway operation and has helped deepen my understanding into steam, although I have a lot still to learn here.

WrexRail was created from a simple idea: to build something for everyone who loves railways. Whether you're taking your first steps into the hobby, returning after many years away, searching for a special model, or already building an exhibition quality layout, I want WrexRail to be a friendly and welcoming place where enthusiasts of all ages and experience levels can find what they need.

My vision is for WrexRail to become more than just a shop. I want it to be a community where people can meet people, share knowledge, learn new skills, and inspire the next generation of railway enthusiasts.

As WrexRail grows, I hope to develop new opportunities for people to connect through the hobby that has given me so much enjoyment.

Thank you for visiting WrexRail and being part of the journey.  Happy Modelling