A local author's book giving an insight into Coalville's Palitoy factory is being scheduled for release next year.

My Palitoy Story: The History of a Famous British Toy Company has been written by Bob Brechin - chief designer at Palitoy during its heyday - and documents one of the most iconic toy manufacturers of the 20th Century, documenting its inception, rise to prominence and eventual dissolution.

The book has been fully funded via a Kickstarter campaign, but while the book is being designed, extra pre-orders are being taken before it goes to the printers. 

Bob said: "We want to make sure that as many people as possible get the opportunity to own what will be a limited edition book that tells the story of one of Coalville's biggest employers of the 1970/80s. 

"Many people of Coalville or their relatives would have worked at the 'goldmine on top of a coalmine' as it was described by the BBC."

Printing will not start until October at least - and deliveries of this special book should be out by April at the latest.

Palitoy Limited was part of the General Mills Toy Group from 1968 to 1985, and introduced such amazing brands as Action Man, Tiny Tears, Pippa, Parker Games, Mainline Railways, Star Wars, Action Force and many more.

The company's story began in 1919, shortly after the Great War, when a young man decided he wanted to exploit the burgeoning plastics industry by setting up his own company.

Bob joined Palitoy the year after Action Man was launched in 1966 and who was part of the creative team that saw the brand receive the epitaph 'Toy of the Decade' in 1980. 

As well as being a highly visual experience, with many photos to enjoy, the book will take its readers through the history of Palitoy as the 20th century unfolded socially, politically and industrially. An essential for those that love toys.

Author Bob was joined by award winning graphic designer and Total Action Force co-creator, Brian Hickey. 

This team will deliver a meticulously researched look at the history of Palitoy and the British toy industry, presented in a beautiful 256 page hardbound coffee table book.

As well as featuring the toys, the book will tell the story of the people behind Palitoy, with first hand accounts from many of its staff collected by the author through personal interviews and research of contemporary publications.

More details can be found HERE.