by Martin Jefferies

Margate model maker Hornby has been given an Olympic-sized boost after winning a licence to create a range of London 2012 merchandise.

The first official Olympic Games toys will arrive in shops this Christmas. They will include Airfix kits of the main venues, die-cast London taxis, buses and collectable figurines by Corgi and even a Scalextric velodrome set.

The three-year deal - described as a “great honour and an important development” by Hornby bosses - is the first toy and souvenir licence to be awarded by the London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG).

Frank Martin, chief executive of Hornby, pictured right, said: “We have some very exciting plans that will demonstrate the very best of London and the Games.

“This demonstrates the strength of our strategy to assemble a portfolio of great brands and represents a major opportunity to grow our sales and extend the appeal of our products with new consumers.”

Paul Deighton, CEO of LOCOG, added: “We are proud to be working with a truly iconic British company, which can offer us a great range of products across its brands that will celebrate the Games and live on for generations after as collector’s items.”

Hornby is one of a number of Kent businesses expected to benefit from business opportunities created by London 2012.

The Games will generate around 7,000 direct contracts, involving up to 75,000 separate firms.

Companies based in the South East have already secured more than £13 million worth of Olympic-related work.

A county council-led Kent Campaign for the 2012 Games has also been set up to inspire sport, tourism and industry involvement.