Keynsham Resident Constructs Extensive Christmas Model Village at Home

Paul Gunter, a resident of Keynsham, near Bristol, has assembled a Christmas model village within his front room, comprising 67 miniature houses, various figurines, and carousels. The display, which he began three years ago, incurred a cost comparable to that of a wedding. However, Mr. Gunter stated that the investment is justified by its positive effect on his mental health. “Our first display was three or four houses on a small table behind the sofa, this year it is massive,” Mr Gunter remarked. The current arrangement also incorporates shops, a pub, Christmas trees, a hot air balloon, and a windmill. He initiated the expansion of his model village after experiencing mental health difficulties. “A few years ago I had a little blip, and I started doing jigsaw puzzles to distract me,” he informed BBC Radio Bristol. He further explained, “This has taken over my puzzles in the winter, and it is just a joy to sit in my chair by the Christmas tree and stare at it.” Mr. Gunter indicated that he can spend “all day” in his front room working on the village. “After I done it, I sit in my chair by the Christmas tree and sometimes I lose myself in it.” He added, “You just go into the village and my partner Joe laughs out loud and says ‘you’ve been 10 minutes staring’.” Nevertheless, the figurines, lights, and houses represent a considerable expense. “We’re getting married in 2026, and this would probably pay for the wedding,” he commented. His partner, Joe, noted that one of the most remarkable features of the display is that “if you were standing in that village yourself, you can access everything, up and down stairs, down the road and around little streets.” For updates from BBC Bristol, follow them on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.