I dont think that its the Airfix element of Hornby that's failing. They seem to be expanding their range of kits and whilst they may be more expensive than they used to be, they are also a world apart from their kits of old. I suggest anyone who thinks they are overpriced go and buy one of their new tool kits and have a look. I bought a couple recently as they were being discounted in aldi, and i was surprised at the quality and detail. They really are good. I used to build them as a kid, back in the 60s and 70s, and i have always taken an interest in plastic kits, although my main interest is in flying models, but these new tool kits have sparked my interest again, and I'm now contemplating getting an airbrush, because the one thing I could never do was brush paint!
If you think £8 is expensive, compare it to a packet of smokes, or a couple of pints...... and how long do they last?
I hope they survive and thrive, they deserve to do so.