New stamps celebrate Hornby Model Railways

Royal Mail is issuing a set of 12 stamps to celebrate Hornby Model Railways, which was first started by Liverpool toymaker Frank Hornby more than 100 years ago.

Frank Hornby, the inventor of Meccano, produced his first clockwork Hornby Series trains in 1920 in his Old Swan factory, followed in 1929 with the first models representing real British locomotives.

Each stamp features a photograph of a Hornby model including an InterCity 125, Bournemouth Belle Pullman cars and a 1920 No 1 locomotive.

"Each of these stamps celebrates a piece of history, of Hornby's craftsmanship and its role in British culture for generations," Martyn Weaver, of Hornby said.

"To see Hornby Model Railways celebrated on Royal Mail stamps is a real honour.

"Hornby has been part of British life for more than a century, inspiring creativity, craftsmanship and a lifelong interest in railways and modelling."

An additional four stamps presented in a miniature sheet celebrate the heritage of Hornby through nostalgic designs, each featuring classic packaging, catalogue covers and promotional artwork from different eras.

The stamps are set against an illustration of a London, Midland and Scottish Railway locomotive in full steam.

David Gold, Royal Mail's director of external affairs and policy, said Hornby trains "entertained millions" and "preserved the romance of rail travel".

"These stamps recognise the enduring appeal of model railways and the role the hobby continues to play in bringing people together across generations," he said.

Pat Hammond, archivist at the Train Collectors Society, said the Hornby brand "is part of Britain's heritage, and long may it be so".

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