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Designer's toys down from attic and up for auction

Vectis Auctions Bob Brechin, a bald man with a white beard wearing a grey zipped jacket, stands in front of a display of toys including Action Man and GI Joe figuresVectis Auctions
Bob Brechin worked in the UK and European toy industry for decades

A designer is auctioning off a collection reflecting his decades of work creating and managing "iconic" toys.

Bob Brechin was chief designer at Palitoy between the 1960s and 1980s and played a pivotal role in the creation of its Action Man and Action Force toys.

Now 80, he says the time has come for him to pass on his rare collection to others that will appreciate their value.

"They're better off in the hands of collectors, rather than being stored in places where they may never seen the light of day again," he said.

More than 100 lots will be auctioned at Stockton's Vectis auction house on Thursday, with bids already stacking up online.

The Bob Brechin Collection features items from the designer's personal archive, including prototypes that "offer a glimpse into the creative process behind Action Force and Palitoy", a spokeswoman for the auctioneers said.

"For anyone interested in the history of toys and the legacy of Palitoy, this auction promises to be an unforgettable event," she added.

The auction includes toys from the Action Man, Star Wars and Tiny Tears ranges, along with paperwork and other items reflecting Mr Brechin's contribution to the toy industry.

Vectis Auctions A 'Australian Jungle Fighter' figure of a man with a green hat and suit carrying a gun is displayed next to a certificate of authenticity featuring Bob Brechin's photograph and signature.Vectis Auctions
Many of the toys listed for auction have attracted bids well beyond their estimated value

Reflecting on his experiences, Mr Brechin said: "At the time, it was only a job but looking back and having become involved with the collecting community, I now realise how loved and wanted the toys are.

"It's getting a bit difficult getting up into my loft now so I think it is time to pass them on.

"It's a bit sad, but it's got to be done."

Vectis Auctions A collection of six Star Wars figurines, including Chewbacca, a Stormtrooper and Princess LeiaVectis Auctions
Star Wars figures are among the items being auctioned

Now living in South Derbyshire, Mr Brechin said he played a central part in making the initially Americanised Action Force and Action Man range suitable for British audiences and ensured the military uniforms and vehicles reflected British regiments.

He got involved with the toy industry after graduating from design college in Birmingham.

"I first worked for a company designing doors and I saw an advert for a toy designer," he said.

"I thought it sounded a lot more interesting than designing door handles so applied and I got the job.

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