Bob Brechin discusses ‘My Palitoy Story’ – his curious new coffee table book which provides a beautifully illustrated insight into one of the most iconic toy manufacturers of the 20th Century – a famous factory which operated right out of Leicestershire…
Throughout the 60s, 70s and 80s, many classic toys were made at Leicestershire’s Palitoy factory – beloved childhood staples such as Playdoh, Tiny Tears and Action Man. Ridiculously popular Star Wars figures – toys which have been known to fetch thousands and thousands of pounds at auction – were also shipped from there.
Right in the heart of the action was Bob Brechin – Palitoy’s chief toy designer, who worked at the company between 1967 and 1984. Together with the design and marketing teams, the 79-year-old’s contribution to so many childhoods is immeasurable, and he is a legend in the minds of many vintage toy enthusiasts…
After over a decade in the works, he has recently released a limited edition (and immaculately presented) hardback, which provides a unique and fascinating insight into the history of Palitoy and life inside its famous walls…
According to Bob, working at Palitoy was a happy and colourful experience, with different generations working together to ensure that many of the nation’s favourite toys were ready to be shipped to children across the country and beyond…
“In the factory it wasn’t uncommon to have a grandmother and a mother and a daughter all working together on the same production belt, so it really was a bit of a family affair,” he tells Pukaar.
“Then there was a factory shop where staff could buy the toys at a discount price and take them home to their kids…
“If you talk to anyone who worked at Palitoy, they’ll have nothing but fabulous words to say about it,” he added. “They’d say it was a wonderful place to work, and it really was…
“ I feel proud to be a part of something which has such a strong legacy and continues to ”bring joy to people across the world…
Bob Brechin is well known in the Star Wars, Action Force and Action Man collecting communities. He really threw himself into his work, and is probably best known for developing the iconic ‘Action Man’ toy, which had a gripping hand based on his own!
It’s a unique fact which has vintage toy enthusiasts queuing up to shake his (famous) left hand, and to acquire his autograph at the various toy conventions he attends.
So far, he has been asked to sign almost 200 copies of ‘My Palitoy Story’, which was fully funded via a Kickstarter campaign, with hundreds of backers chipping in to make the project a reality.
Designed by the award-winning Brian Hickey, (above left) the 256 page hardback is a highly visual experience, with many photos to enjoy. It takes readers through the history of Palitoy, from its origins at Cascelloid (founded in Leicester in 1919) through to its ‘heyday’ in the 1970s and eventual dissolution in 1985.
As well as featuring the famous toys that were made and distributed from the factory in Coalville, the book tells the story of the people behind Palitoy, with first-hand accounts from many of its staff.
“It’s part of the heritage of Palitoy and a bit of a collector’s item for toy enthusiasts,” explained Bob, who, during his time at the company, helped to develop the Palitoy ‘Death Star’ – a popular addition to the Star Wars toys.
“It’s great to finally get the book out there and be able to hold it in my hands after over a decade of research, planning and writing.
“For years people have been telling me ’you should write a book’ and now I’ve finally done it. It’s been a real labour of love – being able to tell people about Palitoy – a place which has served as a huge part of my life, and so many others. It is an honour, which makes me extremely proud.”
Bob delivers occasional talks about Palitoy across the county and is booked to deliver one, (together with the former Palitoy Marketing Manager Geoff Maisey), at Leicester’s National Space Centre on ‘Star Wars Weekend’ (May 4 and 5th).
To get a copy of his book, or to find out more, visit: www.totaltoybooks.com/shop/p/my-palitoy-story-by-bob-brechin
By Louise Steel
