SUPER slot cars, racing tracks and miniature grandstands will take centre stage this weekend at the 13th annual Scalextric Swapmeet.

Hundreds of Scalextric superfans will make tracks to the Oasis Leisure Centre on Sunday for a day of swapping, socialising and high octane racing using the best products from around the world.

This year sees an increase from the traditional 62 tables to a record-breaking 72 selling everything from vintage Ferrari slot cars to miniature pit garages.

The event is run by Robert Learmouth joined by co-organiser and friend Rob Lees, both of whom have had a passion for Scalextric since childhood.

Rob Learmouth, a telecoms project manager of Priory Vale, has run the event since 2003, when he and his brother saw a gap in the market for fans of the model race car system.

Rob Lees, 59 from Marlborough said the Swindon Scalextric community was on the rise in the town.

“I am very excited about the event. What’s good is that people come to socialise, make friends and enjoy the day and more and more people seem to come each year,” he said.

“I’ve always enjoyed building and racing cars, I’m very much a hobbyist so this will be a very exciting and enjoyable day.

“Each year we are seeing people from different places in the UK, different countries, all coming together for the swap meet.

“We’re different as an event because it isn’t just stalls, there will be four racing tracks where people can come and have a go and compete against others and it always attracts attention.

“There’s always a great atmosphere, especially among the children who love the day and seeing all the different cars.”

The pair are expecting more than 500 visitors on the day who will get the chance to peruse the latest Scalextric products alongside items from other slot car manufacturers including Carrera, Slot-it and NSR.

The swap meet is always held at the beginning of the year to cater for those who received their first Scalextric sets for Christmas.

Hornby, the firm best known for its manufacture of miniature train sets, is responsible for the Scalextric brand and has said 90 per cent of its stock is sold as toys rather than collectables.

Both Robs will be at the leisure centre from 7.15am on the day ahead of the 10.30am to 3.30pm session of buying, selling, swapping and racing various Scalextric items

The Scalextric Swap meet, will take place at the Oasis Leisure Centre on Sunday (JAN 8) from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

Tickets are £2.50 for adults and £1 for children.