Hi Tim
just to say thanks for the info!
As regards to epochs I've decided to go with epoch 3 and as to what i want to model I haven't the foggiest idea at the moment. The model will be based in a shed so I have approx 7 1/2ft x 6ft. Purchased a 4-6-4 tank yesterday from Waltons reason being that I liked the look of the model. Also just about to finish a plastic kit of a station not a million miles from some of the stations pictured in the web site you sent me just that this one has wood planking running around the top the building. Also got a couple of house kits again these seem to be based in alpine areas. Not knowing much on German railways I'm finding it hard to come up with a track scheme that's not complicated but has the ability to keep me interested for a few hours when running the trains. So the info that members like yourself have given me will with hope help decided on what to model.
Thanks,
Mark