Model train lovers are always looking for new ways to make their miniature constructions to be more realistic.

They will be able to mix their hobby with the sights and sounds of the real thing after model maker Hornby revealed plans to allow customers to pick up its products from real life stations.

The Sandwich-based company, which recently revealed plans to move its Margate visitor centre to Ramsgate, will let set up collection points at outlets run by parcel company Doddle, the UK’s first staffed online-shopping collection and returns service located in train stations.

It has shops at Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Bromley South stations, as well as several in London.

Hornby has also signed a deal with delivery company DPD to send its products to customers.

DPD will replace UK Mail as Hornby’s main UK delivery service, having topped Money Saving Expert’s customer satisfaction poll of parcel delivery firms for the last two years.

Hornby is also introducing new IT system to improve its capabilities across sales, logistics and finance.

The Enterprise Resource Planning system will eventually be rolled out across Europe to improve efficiency.

Chief executive Richard Ames said: “The delivery of these projects will strengthen our business model and ultimately benefit our customers.

“DPD runs an award-winning delivery service and with Doddle as a partner enthusiasts will have the convenience of being able to collect their model train purchases from a major train station near them.

“I am very pleased that the implementation of our new ERP IT system has gone ahead as planned this summer.

“It will enable us to improve our planning and stock management processes in the UK considerably.

“Once it is rolled out to the wider group, then we can really start to unlock cost savings and efficiencies across our business.”