Toy World has been asked to appeal to its readership in order to find experts from the world of vintage toys and collectibles for an upcoming TV project.

BBC Studios has been in touch to ask for advice on an upcoming television project for a UK broadcaster, on vintage toys and memorabilia. The programme makers are looking for talented and diverse specialists and experts within the various genres of the industry to be involved.

“In the series we’ll be exploring everything from Corgi to Hornby, Star Wars memorabilia to Sindy dolls – from how they were manufactured and designed, to handy tips for restoration and care,” a representative told Toy World. “It’ll be a really warm, nostalgic series that will celebrate our love for toys and will hopefully ignite a passion for collecting amongst our audience.”

The programme makers are looking for top specialists to act as on-screen guides who’ll help shed light on this exciting industry; from inventors to curators, and auctioneers to collectors. “In particular, we’re keen to ensure a range of onscreen talent including people who are disabled and those from BAME backgrounds,” they explained.  “As Toy World is right at the heart of the industry, I wonder if I could ask if your team may know of any really talented figures who have a specialism they’re passionate about, board game design, tin plate restoration, antique dolls, the British history of toys etc?”

“We really want to ensure our series encourages equality and inclusivity by bringing talented and diverse experts from this exciting world to the nation’s screen,” they continued. “The series will be very broad in the toys that we’ll cover and then how we deep-dive into those toys, (the history, the manufacturing, the design, how to spot a replica, how to value the item) so buyers and retailers with different specialisms may be able to tell us something about the toys we explore, from a buyer whose expertise is in lead soldiers, to an independent retailer who’s been around for years and can shed light on British toy history.”

Initially, a contacts base of specialists will be compiled, who may later be involved in filming. With a particular push to bring diverse experts to the screen, the BBC is keen to talk to passionate people in the toy industry and bring fresh faces to the project.

Anyone interested should get in touch with our editor rachael@toyworldmag.co.uk, who can then pass on your details.