PECO Model Railways has acquired Harburn Hobbies, founded in Leith by enthusiasts Hargreaves and Burns who combined their names to create a long-established retail venture.

Harburn Hobbies was bought by Colonel Jimmy Innes before it was passed on to the Baird family in 1966. For nearly six decades, the Bairds helped build it into a national institution among modellers.

PECO and Harburn Hobbies have enjoyed a close partnership since the 1960s, making this acquisition a natural evolution of their longstanding relationship.

Harburn Hobbies will benefit from the resources of PECO while maintaining its product range and dedication to modellers of all levels.

PECO recognised that Bob and Gillian Baird were approaching retirement and wanted to ensure that the business continued to thrive. The Bairds will remain involved during the transition period.

Speaking about the acquisition, chairman of PECO, Michael Pritchard commented: “As an institution in the model railway community, it [Harburn Hobbies] plays a vital role in nurturing the hobby and we are committed to ensuring it continues to flourish for generations to come.”