Toy firm Hornby has ended its lengthy search for a new chief executive after appointing former Ladbrokes director Richard Ames in the role.

The Margate-based group, which as well as selling model trains owns brands such as Airfix, Scalextric and Corgi, said Mr Ames will join the group in April.

At that point chairman Roger Canham will revert back to a non-executive role.

It has been looking for a new boss since last March after former chief executive Frank Martin announced plans to retire.