A MODEL steam launch called Victoria sailed away victorious at the latest John Goodwin auction, with a hammer price of £420, the best of the day.

But was a Covid effect in play, creating not just a nostalgia for exotic travel but a growing interest in collecting, in these lockdown times?

Auctioneer, Chris Maulkin said: " John Goodwin’s can report that an upsurge in hobbies and collecting has definitely led to a general upturn in demand for toys and model railways. Vintage motoring still commands serious interest and the demand for enamel signs goes from strength to strength."

John Goodwin, based in Ledbury and Malvern, commenced their 2021 auction season with a specialist sale of model railway, die cast toys, aviation models and motoring memorabilia which attracted a loyal following of regular buyers along with many new clients and bids from all parts of the UK, mainland Europe and even further afield.

The sale commenced with motoring effects, with a vintage motor cycle helmet and goggles roaring away at £250.

A collection of 00 gauge railway, comprising Hornby, Bachmann and Lima "attracted tremendous interest from both private collectors and trade buyers".

Mr Maulkin said: There has, without doubt, been a resurgence in interest in all things model railway.

"A collection of nearly as new models were highly sought after. Older Hornby Dublo still has its followers with SR Dorchester making £150 and a collection of boxed signals also £150. A rare boxed Bassett Lowke boxed 0 gauge LMS 3f steam engine made a pleasing £170."

Bears of all ages are always a popular species and two bears, despite their relatively young age, performed particularly well. Great Aunt Lucy and Paddington Bear, both with tags and scarce modern collectables, sold to go to a new home for £130.

A consignment of Aviation Models by Corgi, which were in very good, boxed, condition attracted national interest from the internet, with a BBMF set making £120. Many of these being discontinued models are rare and prices ‘took off’ reflecting the interest from the aviation world.

In the 'railwayana' section, a modern station sign from Great Malvern sold for £85.