Hornby given F1 boost

Model kit and hobby firm Hornby today said sales of Scalextric enjoyed a boost after the success of Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton sparked renewed interest in the sport.

The group said Hamilton’s Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Team range was on track to become a best-seller amid the Formula One fever as it posted interim pre-tax profits up 44% to £2.6m (€3.7m).

Hornby added it was in “excellent health” in the run up to the key Christmas trading period.