THE Old New Inn and Model Village has been put on the market with the current owners set to retire.

Julian and Vicky Atherton will be stepping aside after 19 years running the Inn and village in Bourton-on-the Water which is on the market for £595,000 by Christie & Co.

The Model Village, is a one ninth scale exact replica of the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water and was crafted by with local Cotswold stone back in 1936.

It attracts over 100,000 visitors a year and is the only one to be given Grade II listed status, recognised for its rarity, craftsmanship and historical value.

Mr and Mrs Atherton, who have ran the site since 1999, limited the inn’s offering in 2011 opening only during the day from April to September for wet sales due to the huge popularity and success of the Model Village.

Mr and Mrs Atherton said: “We have thoroughly enjoyed the last 19 years here and have been delighted with the increase in visitors to the Model Village. We were honoured to be the second family to own this unique attraction and have taken pride in renovating it and introducing additional exhibits, however we now feel it is time for retirement.”

Nicholas Calfe, who is handling the sale hopes that the model village will continue to be open to tourists to the village under new owners.

Mr Calfe said: “This miniature village presents huge potential. The New Old Inn and Model Village provides a unique opportunity with multiple income streams and a strong tourist offering in a highly desirable location."