AN award-winning North Yorkshire attraction has celebrated welcoming its 18-millionth visitor.

The Jorvik Viking Centre in York was first opened to the public in April 1984 and was an immediate success with visitors to the city.

It was created on the site of the original Viking settlement and its recreation of Viking life, complete with all its sights and smells, made it a huge hit with the public.

The head of marketing with the York Archaeological Trust, David Scott, said: "Now in its 31st year, the Jorvik Viking Centre continues to educate and entertain families from all over the world on the Viking Age.

“And as a not-for-profit organisation, income generated by our paying visitors helps to fund the Trust’s charitable activities to ensure the past is something that is enjoyed by all."