NODDY fans should make sure they are in front of the television on Wednesday when a Tottington man displays a real extravaganza of memorabilia.

John Street (33) of Bradshaw Road, will play a starring role on the Channel 4 show Collectors' Lot, starting at 3.30pm.

Businessman John's obsession began five years ago when his wife Deborah (32) presented him with a Toy Town tissue holder.

Now his collection - including the rare Noddy car that John is pictured driving - is one of the biggest in the country.

John forked out £5,000 for the tiny, open-topped 1972 Fiat Gamine and likes nothing more than taking his ten-year-old daughter Chantelle - dressed in a Noddy costume - out for a spin.

Drivers blast their horns at the Noddy motor - top speed 65mph - and the Streets are often the butt of jokes from youngsters.

But that didn't deter John from travelling to London last year for an auction of Noddy memorabilia at Sotheby's. He made a successful £3,000 bid for original art work from Enid Blyton's Noddy books.

"The price kept going up and up, but it was worth it in the end," he said.

The Noddy craze has gripped the whole family as John explained: "Chantelle appeared on Blue Peter last November with some of her memorabilia.

"And my 18-month-old son Berkley can spot Noddy items from ten yards away at car boot sales. He starts jumping up and down in his pram and we can't control him!

"He was in a Bury shoe shop with my wife and spotted a pair of Noddy slippers on a shelf. Of course we had to buy them!"

John said the family have not suffered any mickey-taking. "In fact, people often look out for Noddy items for us," he added. "In today's world it's just a bit of fun and the kids absolutely love it."

The Streets plan to increase their collection - and have even written to council bosses suggesting they house a permanent Toy Town exhibition at Ramsbottom train station.

The couple are expecting their third child next month and John mused: "Deborah is hoping I won't call the baby Noddy if it's a boy!"

The family's huge tribute is worth thousands - and often attracts passers-by as well as local children.

"They leave notes in Noddy's car in the garage," added John.

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