A Shropshire company is to treble its turnover and take on 25 per cent more staff over the next two years after winning the contract to make London 2012 Olympic toys and mascots.

John Hale, boss of Golden Bear Products in Telford, revealed business was booming as he helped launch the first range of official merchandise at the factory yesterday.

It includes models of Olympic mascot Wenlock, named in honour of Much Wenlock where the inspiration for the modern games is believed to have originated.

Mr Hale said the franchise deal was very important to the firm, which currently employs 54 people and this year celebrates its 31st anniversary.

He said: “We would expect our turnover to treble to £30 million a year by the time the games come around in 2012. We will probably expand our workforce by 25 per cent over the two years.”

The toys and mascots currently available from the firm are available from the London 2012 online shop at www.shop.london2012.com