Hornby Reconnects With Thomas Train Range

Hornby is to re-establish its link with Thomas the Tank Engine by relaunching its classic range of model trains based on the popular children’s books and TV series. The model railway set specialist last produced Thomas The Tank Engine products in 2013 but has agreed a new licence with HIT, the pre-school entertainment company which has control over the usage of the Thomas and Friends brand. The launch of the new Thomas and Friends range coincides with the 70th anniversary of the popular kids' character and will be available to purchase from December, ahead of the crucial Christmas season. Jim Procter-Blain, marketing director at Hornby, told Sky News the new range would have nostalgia appeal so would be manufactured to last beyond the toy-room years.