Train-maker Hornby rescues Airfix

Iconic UK plastic plane firm Airfix was rescued today after Hornby struck a deal with administrators.

Model train maker Hornby agreed to pay £2.6m (€3.9m) for Airfix, Humbrol Paints and Young Scientist.

It followed the collapse of Airfix owner Humbrol which went into administration in August.

The troubles at Humbrol sparked an outpouring of nostalgia for Airfix, which enjoyed its heyday in the 1960s and 1970s as children glued together model Spitfires, Hurricanes and Lancaster bombers.

Humbrol has suffered trading losses for years and 31 staff were made redundant when it went into administration following the collapse of its principal manufacturer in France.

Fans were concerned it would signal the end of the Airfix brand, although administrators said at the time they were looking for a buyer.

Hornby was among those linked with a move for Airfix and today the firm pledged to reinvigorate the firm.