The popularity of model trains and racing cars has proved its enduring quality for Hornby, whose recent revival has shown no signs of running out of steam.

The model maker's chief executive Frank Martin said the group had enjoyed excellent sales growth for both its train sets and Scalextric racing cars after half-year profits more than doubled.

A wave of new products and a resurgence in demand from older enthusiasts pushed turnover up 32 per cent to £14m in the six months to September 30.

Pre-tax profits soared to £1.7m from just £794,000 a year ago, as Hornby continued to reap the benefit from its restructuring.

The Margate-based group has outsourced production to China to save cash and focus on improving the detail of its model locomotives.

Mr Martin said that with new products aimed at young children selling well the group's customer base now ranged in age from four to 80.

He added: "Hornby's strategy for growth is now firmly established."

Hornby signalled earlier this year it wanted to increase the proportion of the dividend payout made at the half-year stage.

The group said all of its new railway products, including a 1930s-style Black 5 steam locomotive, had been enthusiastically received by collectors.

It added that the launch of a Scalextric Sport slot-car range had helped push export sales of the brand up by 25 per cent.