Magpie Model Horses

About Magpie Models

The history

Magpie Models was conceived in the early 1980s, a family business, trading from converted stables in Stover near Newton Abbot, Devon. The original designs, created at this time, are still being used today. The businesses moved to Bishopsteignton, again stables were used as premises, with new additions being introduced regularly. Magpie Models at 'Middle Humber Stables' as it was known, introduced the first rider models to complement the horses and accessories. The business had a small but loyal following, selling items via mail order, for which a quarterly magazine was created to carry the latest designs and stock lists. The magazine relied on the regular contributions from customers who sent in drawings, poems and stories to accompany the sales literature.

In 1995 Magpie Models were sold to Smithbrook Stables, in Surrey, however, the manufacturing base remained in Devon. Magpie Models developed their models further until 1999 when due to competition and falling sales it closed. All stock and moulds were removed from Devon and stored at Smithbrook Stables.

In the late summer of 2002 Jan Adams negotiated for the rights of ownership of the business and successfully returned Magpie Models to its county of origin. Having undertaken market research Jan realised that the market for model horses, especially those produced by Magpie Models was still very much alive and well and decided to re-launch the company using modern technology.

Our Processes

All Magpie Models are either hand finished, or completely hand made. Horses and riders are supplied as extruded components from our own moulds which we assemble the finished piece. They are then sent to the paint shop for colouring and then to the hand painting area for the final detail to be added.

The tack is also all hand made, either from leather, or other suitable fabrics. Once again it is finished by hand and carefully packed and stored in readiness for sale.

Once we have received an order it is processed and packed for shipping. Even our packing processes are completed by hand.