An extraordinary book of Action Man photography is raising funds for Brain Tumour Research.
Hannah Colby lost her husband Steve Gilmour to an aggressive brain tumour in May 2022, just two weeks after their wedding day. Steve had been diagnosed with a grade 4 gliosarcoma in August 2021 and underwent surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. He was just 45 when he died, nine months after his diagnosis.
Steve was a passionate musician, talented photographer and lifelong Action Man enthusiast. He spent countless hours creating detailed, imaginative scenes featuring the iconic toy, producing dramatic images inspired by military history, adventure and storytelling.
Now, in the year Steve would have celebrated his 50th birthday, Hannah has created a book of his extraordinary Action Man photography. Lights, Camera, Action Man brings together more than 130 striking images and is published as the iconic action figure marks its 60th anniversary.
The book was launched at the Official Action Man Convention in Essex yesterday. Its production was supported by graphic designer Rob Wisdom and includes a foreword written by Bob Brechin, former chief design engineer for Palitoy (the toy manufacturer that produced Action Man).
Steve's parents, Hannah, Rob Wisdom and Adam Jarrett (Steve's best friend)
Hannah, who set up a Fundraising Group called Band Together in Steve’s memory, said: “After more than a year of planning and development, it’s incredibly special to see Lights, Camera, Action Man finally become a reality. From the moment we lost Steve, I knew I wanted to create something that would celebrate his talent and keep his legacy alive for those who shared his passion. With 2026 marking both the 60th anniversary of Action Man and what would have been Steve’s 50th birthday, this felt like the perfect moment to bring the book to life. It has truly been a labour of love and I’m so proud to see Steve’s remarkable photographs in print and shared with the community he cared about so deeply.
“I hope this book, with all profits going to Brain Tumour Research, will help raise awareness of brain tumours and the urgent need for better treatments.”
To purchase the book, priced at £40 (with £10 donated to Brain Tumour Research), email toywithithq@gmail.com
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