CAR SALESMAN FINDS THAT BIG ISN'T ALWAYS BEST - 06 December 2002

A car sales firm in Redfield is swamped with orders for its latest model - even though its top speed is just 5mph. Richard Adams originally bought a couple of the toy cars to brighten up his forecourt. He was so overwhelmed with interest from customers that he set up the Pedal Car Company and in the past two months has sold 600 models -- in the same period the firm has sold 80 real cars.

There are 18 models available which are replicas of the original mini cars which were made from the 1920s to the early 1960s.Mr Adams said: "People are sick of buying plastic goods which fall to pieces."These will last around 20 or 30 years. They are very strong with wheels made of steel. They also provide kids with exercise, which is fairly uncommon with modern toys."The toys are based on classic models such as Sedans, Jalopies, Roadsters and Model Ts.There are also six pedal aeroplanes available, including the Red Baron and Shark Attack.A few of the originals can still be found and one model of a Retro Racer, made in 1958, recently sold for £2,400.

Mr Adams believes the new versions could also become collectors' items one day.He said: "The response from customers is delightful."It's not just children either, plenty of adults buy them for themselves."A 60-year-old woman bought one and asked if we could hang it on her wall.

"The Pedal Car Company is the only firm in Europe to import the cars which come from America, China and Korea."It currently has 2000 on order and 100 pre-booked. Prices range from £139 to £399 and for more information, call 01225 777111

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