Toy Story 3 Scalextric and Hornby Sets Released this Summer

Toy Story 3, the latest instalment in the wildly popular Pixar film series, has been released to impressive success in both the US and overseas markets. Breaking opening weekend box office records for an animated feature previously set by Shrek the Third, it is likely going to be one of the highest grossing films of 2010.

Released 15 years after the original feature, the film has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, and holds high ratings on IMDB, Metacritic and Rotten Tomatoes. It sees Buzz and Woody, voiced by Tim Allen and Tom Hanks, come to terms with the passage of time as their owner, Andy, is now 17 years old and preparing to go to college. When the rest of the toys are mistakenly given to a day-care centre, Woody has to break in and convince them that they weren't abandoned and to return home.

The good news for model enthusiasts out there is that the people at Pixar have teamed up with Hornby and Scalextric to release the Hornby Railways Toy Story 3 Set and the Micro Scalextric Toy Story Set. These are sure to be popular gifts with fans of both the film and slot car racing or train sets, and are a great way of introducing your children to a new pastime.

The Hornby Railways Toy Story 3 Train Set includes a Western style train engine, 3 carriages and good starter layout that can be extended. It also comes with a desert scene track mat to bring the set to life. One of the carriages contains miniature Woody and Buzz figures holding on as the engine chugs along the electric train track. This is ideal for young or entry-level Hornby enthusiasts, and is an ideal starting point for any collection.

The Micro Scalextric Toy Story Set is an exciting and detailed slot car racing set, made to the high standards expected from Scalextric. Set in the industry standard 1:64 scale, it includes both Buzz and Woody cars, and is an excellent introduction to the world of Scalextric racing. Take on friends and family for hours of fun.

These releases compliment the already-rich line of movie tie-ins, which includes a Mirco Scalextric set for the film Cars, Hornby Harry Potter sets and the James Bond ‘Quantum of Solace' Scalextric set. With the success of the third Toy Story film already established, don't be surprised if we see a fourth outing soon, with more model tie-ins to bring fun to infinity and beyond!

Paul Jones is an avid model enthusiast and has been involved with model assembly, design and painting for over 20 years.