MODEL train maker Hornby has reported a surge in profits over the last year as mature collectors continued to buy up its ranges.

The Kent-based group, which makes Hornby model railways and Scalextric car racing models, said pre-tax profits for the year to March 31 jumped 62 per cent to £3.7m while turnover leapt 16 per cent to £28.5m.

Chief executive Frank Martin said: "There is a genuine resurgence in interest in our hobby ranges amongst adult collectors and enthusiasts."

He continued: "The demographic pattern of the post-war 'baby boomers' entering their 40s and 50s with more time and disposable income than ever before gives real confidence that the current favourable market conditions will be sustainable for the forseeable future."

The group said one particular success was a Harry Potter Hogwarts Express train set. Mr Martin said the group sold around 10,000 sets during the year.

To boost sales further, Hornby is planning to produce another set based on the second Harry Potter film, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, and Mr Martin is expecting these to be in the shops this autumn.

Overall, Hornby sold around 70,000 train sets over the year, at an average of £100, as well as an additional 100,000 individual trains.

Mr Martin said adult hobby collectors bought around 75 per cent of the Hornby train sets, while in the Scalextric range the proportions were the other way around with children making up the bulk of sales.

He added: "This year the particular focus is more on Scalextric. We are not neglecting Hornby but the real focus is Scalextric."

The group launched an improved Scalextric track in April, which was the first time the track had been overhauled in 40 years since its launch.

Mr Martin said the new system was smoother and faster to assemble, taking "ten minutes rather than an hour" and reaction had been "outstanding".

"It is now more Formula One than cobbled street," he added.

Shareholders will receive a dividend of 17p, up 42 per cent on the previous year.