These are the fascinating pictures of miniature table sculptures molded around bonsai trees that take up to a painstaking 18 months to create. Japanese illustrator Takanori Aiba, 58, has built the intriguing scale models of windmills, lighthouses and even the Michelin Man.He delicately uses craft paper, plaster, acrylic resin, paint and plastic to create the host of sprawling miniature communities that wrap around the tiny trees.Following his work as an illustrator for Japanese fashion magazine POPYE he has spent the last nine years producing the detailed mini worlds.The creations take at least three months to construct with his Ice Cream Package Tower taking an astonishing 18 months work. Since 2003, he has made eight models, with 10 more planned over the next few years.
HUNDREDS of colour coordinated yarns lie abandoned in this once thriving textile mill .
A professional dancer has embraced her individuality after refusing plastic surgery to remove a giant birthmark on her face .
A first-time mum has told how she was allergic to her unborn baby after she developed an angry red rash all over her body .
The family of a disabled boy who died in a tragic accident at a care home have received a four figure payout after an inquest heard carers allowed him to fall rather than restrain him because of "health and safety" fears .
LYING flat out on his back, this little meerkat makes the most of the English sunshine .
HUDDLED together on a branch, a pair of adorable Javan scops owls soak up the sun .
A former obese woman has told how she lost 19st, but was so terrified of gaining weight that she ended up developing an eating disorder .
Giancarlo pictured at home during his recovery, wearing his compression garments - A mother-of-three has revealed how her 10-month-old son was severely burnt at nursery .
A panic stricken kitten that got her head stuck in a car tyre has been freed by quick thinking RSPCA staff .
RAISING his flipper, this two day old seal pup gives a wave to the camera .
A trout manages to escape the jaws of a hungry cormorant - only to find itself back inside the bird's long beak .
HIDING behind its flipper, this little seal comes over a little camera shy .