The Cyberman helmet's mouth lights up as the user speaks

Character Group delivered the forecast as it unveiled profits of £6.5m for the year to 31 August, compared with a £660,000 in 2005.

As well as "outstanding" sales, the group thanked the sale of its digital business - which helped it focus on toys and games - for the turnaround.

Leading its festive sales is the Dr Who Cyberman voice changing helmet.

The toy has been widely touted as one of the UK's top sellers this Christmas by groups including online retailer Amazon.

Tie-in bonus

The Surrey based firm also expects to reap the benefit of film and DVD releases, following its success with products based on popular films such as Pirates of the Caribbean and Superman Returns.

"The new financial year has started very well, with toys and games in the all important run up to Christmas not only exceeding our earlier expectations but at record levels," said chief executive Richard King.

The group added all of its products - with the exception of its Robotics range - would see double digit growth by Christmas 2006.

Character had lower expectations for the Robotics range in the wake of its record sales performance last year.