A MUCH-LOVED model of a Hampshire city has finally found a permanent home.

For years, Roger Brown’s model of Victorian Winchester has been without a home.

But now it will be permanently located as a major attraction at the revamped City Museum – which re-opens tomorrow.

Measuring over 15 feet and made up of 20 sections, the impressive model is based on the first Ordnance Survey map of the city from 1873.

It took former county planning officer Roger Brown nine years to create following his retirement. He died in 2015 before the model could be permanently housed.

Since its completion in the 1980s, the model has been on temporary display at a number of locations in and around Winchester, including the Great Hall, Intech and the Guildhall, but this is the first time it has been given a longer-term home.

Following an initiative by Winchester Town Forum and with the support of Hampshire Cultural Trust, a solution has been found.

The project is being championed by many prominent local supporters including travel writer, John Pilkington, who worked with Roger Brown at Hampshire County Council.

The model has undergone restoration by HCT’s highly-skilled conservation team, and will be brought to life by new digital interpretation, the model tells the story of Winchester, taking visitors through Victorian streets.

The project has received major funding from Hampshire County Council, Winchester City Council and Winchester Town Forum.

However, Hampshire Cultural Trust (HCT), who operate Winchester City Museum, are launching a major campaign to raise the rest of the funds required to secure the future of the model.

They will be reaching out to local businesses and donors for their support.

Janet Owen, chief executive of Hampshire Cultural Trust, said: “The Roger Brown model is a unique record of our city in Victorian times.

“I am sure it will inspire many new visitors to come to City Museum, and will provide a fascinating introduction to the city.

“Hampshire Cultural Trust is delighted to be able to provide the home for this extraordinary work – made by a man with real vision and love for the heritage of Winchester.”