Excited children swarmed back into Bekonscot Model Village at the weekend as the gates were opened for another year of charity fundraising.

The world’s oldest model village is full of history but despite being open for 85 years it is still one of the best loved tourist attractions in Buckinghamshire.

And families were able to fall in love again with the model village during the opening on Valentine’s Day (Saturday) while an improved railway carriage shop was also officially opened.

The shop has been extended over the winter months and is one of the latest features on the Bekonscot landscape.

Inside the shop souvenirs including books, gifts and other memorabilia are now on offer.

On the reopening day workers did their bit to boost various charities while children appeared happy to look at the miniature world and enjoy the scenery.

Over the years Bekonscot has raised about £6 million for charity and in August last year they celebrated the 85th anniversary of the opening.

In the month preceding the anniversary celebration the Bucks Free Press looked back at some of the highlights of Bekonscot, including Royal visits, celebrity appearance and the creative spark behind the creations.

Bekonscot is based in Warwick Road and is open daily from 10am until 5.30pm.