Dinky Toys were introduced in 1931 and these diecast metal toys became bestsellers. More than 1000 different subjects were modelled, mostly transport related. They were created by Frank Hornby, a Liverpool entrepreneur, and Dinky Toys were part of the successful Hornby empire, which also manufactured Meccano and Hornby trains and establish factories in France, Germany, Canada and other parts of the world. Introduced in 1931 these diecast metal toys were instant bestsellers. Cars, vans, trucks, buses, trains, military and farm vehicles, aircraft, ships and figures.