I was very sad to hear that Hans Beck, founder of Playmobil has died, aged 79 (via things). I love Playmobil. It might be sacrilege to say this, but I think it's better than Lego. The little characters are so delightful and even though they are made of lots of little parts that wedge themselves between the floorboards I treasure every last plastic cuff.
Pictured above is a piece I thought I might have dreamt - a Playmobil jakey. I saw this somewhere (John Lewis probably, they always have the best selection) and didn't buy it (gah!) but Collectobil, the Playmobil collectors' site confirms it. A trawl through their back catalogue is a delight - check out the Antarctic set, Playmospace range and even a Playmobil Sherlock Holmes and Karate Kid. Respect due. RIP Hans.
