Spoke to the Hornby reps at Telford on the weekend. They are very optimistic about the future and have confirmed that they will be able to recover all the original Airfix moulds from France. They couldn’t give me any clues as to what might happen with the ex-Heller moulds. I think they would LIKE to acquire them but they may have to bid for them along with other contenders.

Regarding enamel paints, they are OK for the moment, especially regarding the hobbies and crafts industry but it is likely that they will be banned over the next few years. Humbrol and all the other paint manufacturers are working hard on acrylic type formulas which will be able to replace the old style enamels in time.

Although we in the UK are most concerned about the EU’s plans for banning enamels, this is, in fact, a worldwide move and it looks like the country which will introduce a ban on enamels soonest will be Australia.