Model maker Hornby has launched an in-house crowdfunding platform with the aim of relaunching old lines of products.

The historic company, currently undergoing a move from its site in Margate to Discover Park, Sandwich, has launched the KitStarter project which will allow customers to purchase Airfix models which have been discontinued.

Airfix was founded back in 1939, and since Hornby acquired the model company back in 2006 it has seen a number of classic models be discontinued.

Hornby has said it has received a number of requests from enthusiastic fans, who want to urge the model manufacturer to consider re-launching some old ranges of kits.

The KitStarter campaign has been launched on Airfix’s website, and will allow them to revive some old collectables.

Customers have the ability to choose which of their favourite models can be make a comeback by purchasing them online - when support has reached its goal to make it a realistic option, Hornby will pledge to manufacture the model kit.

Chief executive Richard Ames said: “This is a really exciting initiative for Airfix. We have a very large back-catalogue of model kits, many that are still remembered fondly by our consumers. We get lots of feedback about which models people would like us to re-introduce.

“Our KitStarter crowdfunding platform will enable Hornby to interact much more closely with our consumers. This will help us gauge demand accurately and respond quickly to their requests. Then we can prioritise which models we re-introduce.

“We are also confident that KitStarter will help us to reach a new generation of model enthusiasts that we can attract into the hobby.”

Hornby earlier this month announced the appointment of Steve Cooke as its new finance director, who will join in August.

The company is also currently moving from its site in Margate to a new home in Discovery Park, Sandwich. The move is due to be complete by the end of May.

To check out the KitStarter campaign visit www.airfix.com/kitstarter.