Retail Therapy

THE mainly adult denizens of the world of toy soldiers will be gathering at the 8th UK Toy and Model Soldier Show next Saturday. Lead figures have long been collectable, but now a big market for plastic models has been identified. New metal and plastic figures will be exhibited at the show.

UK Toy and Model Soldier Show, 15 May, Queen Charlotte Hall, Richmond Adult And Community College, Parkshot, Richmond, Surrey. Admission: adults pounds 1, children 50p.

A CRAFTS COUNCIL exhibition and sale, starting on Tuesday, features the work of Jan Zalud. He makes automata, mainly from carved wood, and bases his designs mostly on aspects of the human head and face. Even if you cannot afford to buy - prices start about pounds 175 - you are invited to turn handles and watch the eyes roll and tongues stick out.

From 11 May till 6 June at the Crafts Council Shop, V & A, London SW7 (071-589 5070).

RUMMAGERS may find The Virgin Good Junk Guide useful. Sources such as charity shops, antique markets, house clearance shops, architectural recyclers and country auctions are listed, as well retail outlets.

To be published on 20 May by Virgin Publishing, pounds 9.99

SAY sorry, say it is for ever, say it is expensive: 19 exhibitors are showing rings made from gold, brass, wood, platinum and silver at Leeds Craft Centre and Design Gallery. Prices range from Jill O'Connor's dome-shaped plain silver rings at pounds 21.50, to Jill Redmap's diamond rings at about pounds 5,000.

Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm to 26 June, at Leeds City Art Gallery, The Headrow (0532 478241).