Peter plots model success

A LEWES model-maker is plotting some explosive sales for Bonfire Night.

Peter Cole has produced a collection of action figures depicting the gunpowder plot, complete with barrels of gunpowder - all in 1/32 scale.

Peter, who trades as Replicants, creating moulded plastic model figures at his 164 Lewes High Street workshop, is a member of Lewes Artisans, an online directory of local trades, crafts and skilled people based in and around Lewes.

He specialises in scale models of historical characters for a large audience, many of whom are in the USA.

But there are two problems. The enthusiasts are getting older, and toy soldiers have an 'image problem'.

'It's a shame but it's just as well that we don't only make soldiers!' said Peter.

'Our five-year-old product tester Orlando loves playing with the figures, but we can't really hope to compete with the marketing of the big toy manufacturers.

'So my figures are bought by collectors - people who loved playing with model soldiers as children.'

The package of four model figures, including Guy Fawkes, and stack of gunpowder barrels are being sold from Peter's workshop at 10 each, complete with a background card display of the Parliament cellars.

For more information on Lewes Artisans (http://www.lewesartisans.com) contact Simon Dale 01273 470092 or John Hinitt 01273 480412.