The Toymaster buying group’s annual show is underway at The Majestic Hotel in Harrogate and runs until close of play tomorrow, 18th May. 

Toymaster, the independent buying group, has honoured a number of its members with 25 Year Membership awards at its spectacular Irish-themed party night.

Following a slap-up three course meal, six members received the special accolade this year, three of which were delighted to collect their awards in person:

• The Toy Shop, Cockermouth – Jonty & Fiona Chippendale
• C&H Burns, Cookstown – Ciaran & Helen Burns
• Mary’s Toymaster, Macroom – Richard & Mary Creedon

Fellow recipients of 25 Year Membership awards, who sadly couldn’t be present to collect them on the night, include:

• Nimble Fingers, Dublin – Gareth Staunton
• O’Mahony’s, Limerick – Colette Cotter
• Michael Beatty Toymaster, Loughrea – Michael Shiel

It was also a very special night for Ciaran Fitzpatrick of Banba Toymaster in Dublin, who received a Special Recognition Award and a coveted Golden Teddy. Roger Dyson, who presented the Golden Teddy award, noted Ciaran’s friendship and support throughout the years (including much chauffeuring around Ireland while on business). Ciaran, who sits on Toymaster’s Member Committee, collected his award to lengthy applause and cheers from those gathered for the party night.

The show continues today, with the official Awards Night taking place this evening alongside a three-course meal and entertainment. Among the awards being presented will be Supplier of the Year, Friends of Toymaster, and another Golden Teddy. Toy World will bring you details of tonight’s awards winners tomorrow morning.

The show is open to all independent retailers, whether or not they are a member of the Toymaster group, and is currently playing host to over 100 leading suppliers of toys, games and kids’ products.

Click here for more information.