It wasn’t until the late 1950s that Lego started to become popular – but it had many predecessors.

These are now on display at Wimborne Model Town’s latest exhibition – Life before Lego, which is being opened by Wimborne Mayor, Cllr Kelly Webb, on Wednesday 30 June.

Developed by model historian and author Brian Salter, the exhibits trace the development of model building systems from pre-war Erectico to Bayko, Brickplayer and Kiddicraft.

Other key features are twin scale dioramas of model buildings, vehicles and trains representing the Tri-ang era of the late 1950s and early 60s.  All have been rescued and restored to concours condition following years of painstaking work and recall toy shop stock from 60 years ago.

WMT chairman, Iain Stevenson said: “Despite the frustrations of lockdown, Brian has created a superb display of model buildings, cars and trains that very much complement the era of Wimborne Model Town.   We are very grateful for all his hard work which has provided a wonderful indoor facility for our visitors to enjoy”