RED ALERT! The Dinky Maximum Security Vehicle by Jim L.

If anyone is asked to overview Gerry Anderson merchandise it is very difficult not to touch upon the output of the Binns Road based Liverpool legend DINKY TOYS. From THUNDERBIRDS through to SPACE:1999 Dinky created some of the most collectible and loved toys ever produced relating to the incredible works of the Century 21 team. The Maximum Security Vehicle was perhaps never as popular with viewers as the sleek and sexy Spectrum Patrol Car or indeed the more famous Spectrum Pursuit Vehicle. It was however utilised extensively on-screen particularly in early episodes of CAPTAIN SCARLET AND THE MYSTERONS. Meant to be used to transport important passengers or cargo the car is described as 'Tank-Like' by many and is often seen at Spectrum road blocks in the show so it was clearly meant to be a sturdy machine. The toy is sturdy too!

As always very close to what anyone who has watched the show would expect to see aside from one of the classic Dinky paintjobs. No real explanation can be given for the choice of colours used but I have heard personally from staff of Century 21 at conventions and meetings that certain colours were regarded as unpopular with children. So from this we can glean that in the 1960s children were apparently averse to silver grey? I know I wasn't. However as children were watching the programme in black and white many were never exactly sure what the cars and craft were meant to be anyway I'm sure. The inclusion of the radioactive isotope is again something of a puzzle but added to play value for youngsters as it allowed them to fully appreciate the gull wing doors which set this car apart from others in the range.

I have also included in my piece images from a 1968 edition of Meccano magazine. This particular edition really is a must have for 'SCARLET' enthusiasts as it features glorious art on the front as well as a colour ad on the back cover. Inside there is an extensive review of toys in the range as well as a three page article on the making of the show. Meccano magazines association would continue into the 1970s with a SPACE:1999 'Eagle' cover with the craft being made from the well-known building product Meccano were known for. In this 1968 edition there is also a review of the Airfix Angel Interceptor kit so fans everywhere need to keep their eyes open for copies when they do show up.

Jim Lewis