CASH IN THE ATTIC

EVERY week we give the low-down on the value of forgotten treasures that may be gathering dust in your attic.

THE voice behind Thunderbirds character Scott Tracy – actor Shane Rimmer – died last month aged 89.

One legacy of the sci-fi series is that related collectables have sky rocketed in the half century since the puppets first appeared on TV. Spin-off merchandise such as a Dinky model Thunderbird 2 was made from 1967. It had a Thunderbird 4 submarine inside and yellow plastic folding legs that broke easily, so rare examples in good condition can fetch £500. On release it cost just 12s 11d (65p).

A 1992 Matchbox Tracy Island set with bending palm trees and a swimming pool that opens for rocket launches is worth at least £100.