Model toys for boys no matter what size they are

A FACTORY in West Cork is proving a mecca for big boys as well as small ones and is exporting its miniatures to the four corners of the world.

Prince August, in the village of Kilnamartyra, attracts visitors from as far away as America, Israel, Germany, Saudi Arabia and Turkey who marvel at the intricate metal toy soldiers, hand-painted characters from the Lord of the Rings, ornate chess sets and fantasy figures.

Many visitors who buy moulds of Napoleonic era soldiers send back pictures of themselves and the finished product to the factory who employ nearly 20 full-time workers.

Some of the company’s products have fast become collector’s items, especially in the USA. The chess sets in particular, which can feature ancient Egyptians or Celts, have become extremely popular.

“We recently got an offer of 10,000 for the first set made,” marketing manager Marjorie Cullen said.

She readily admits that many visitors to the factory shop are fascinated adults. “They say it’s for their children but we know it’s actually for them.”

A look at the comments posted in the visitors book is a clear indication that’s true.

Painters like Peta Hudson and Eileen Kelleher can spend up to three hours on a figure, some of which can be tiny 15mm Hobbits.

“When my children were smaller I used to paint the figures on the dash board of the car when they were playing GAA matches,” Eileen said.

Business has been good for Lord of the Rings figures since the release of the film, although Marjorie is quick to point out that their moulds are based on Tolkien’s books rather than the big screen characters.

They also produced moulds and hand painted finished figures depicting heroes such a St Patrick, Brian Boru, Eamon de Valera and Michael Collins. “Since the film the Michael Collins character has outsold the others by 10 to one,” Marjorie said.

The factory is working on producing two new series. General manager Nabil Salib said that next month they would launch a nativity set in time for the Christmas market.

“It will be designed for all the family and made from five-star metal which is 100% lead free.”

Following successful sales of the band of the Southern Command, the company is also embarking on producing miniatures of the Garda Band.