Tinsley South is a fictitious station on an actual line, and is assumed to be near the Meadowhall shopping centre on the former GC line from Sheffield to Rotherham. The location was chosen as it is local, giving the rationale for running stock from the Yorkshire area (although some "visitors" will also be seen), and as an urban station, the track layout would be compact. The time setting can be anything from the 1970s up to today, and hopefully the layout conveys an image of a slightly grubby urban station in this period.
The line in question has not had a regular passenger service for many years, but is still used for diversions when the main line is closed, and part of the formation is actually used by the Supertram. Tinsley South assumes that the local stations were not closed, the line was developed as 'heavy rail' (including retention of the overhead electrification), and for exhibition purposes, other services are using the line due to problems on the main line.
Operational interest is increased by the inclusion of a small wagon repair works, and a siding used by the engineers or occasionally for multiple-unit stabling. The occasional steam special may also be seen.
Stock is from most of the main manufacturers, and shows the diversity of types and colours that can be seen on the modern railway.