Rival to Lego builds hopes for Character

Character Group is to launch its own version of building bricks to exploit some of its best-selling models based on licences including Dr Who and HM Armed Forces.

The new building blocks, which are set to rival Lego, will be launched at next week's London Toy Fair and are claimed to be unique in using different textures on the bricks to create a more natural look.

The company will also launch Bob the Builder and Squinkies ranges at the fair.

Character said it expects revenues for the six months to February to be a third higher than last year's first half.

The shares today jumped 121⁄2p to 185p.