Readers celebrate Mickey's 80th

Mickey and friends celebrate in Tokyo

The world's favourite rodent, Mickey Mouse, celebrated his 80th birthday on Tuesday.

Walt Disney's animated mouse first arrived on cinema screens in 1928 in Steamboat Willie.

BBC News website readers have been sharing their stories about the lovable cartoon character.

---

I have met Mickey twice in the last two years. Although I am 45 years old, it was the thrill of a lifetime. Mickey is timeless. He appeals to people of all ages as he is not judgemental and greets all visitors, no matter how old or young.
Anna-Marie Slivinski, Philadelphia, US

Happy 80th birthday Mickey. You brought me joy and laughter when I was young, and now my grandchildren enjoy you too.
L Zeger, New York, US

Melanie King got to know Mickey a little better on a trip to Disney World

Mickey Mouse is an icon of all that is good in human nature. He sparks a bit of excitement when I hear his name, a smile from ear to ear when I see pictures of him, and a warm feeling in my heart and a tear in my eye when I get to see him at one of the parks in the US. That is one special mouse!
Rhian Purdy, Nevis, West Indies

I met Mickey Mouse on my honeymoon in Florida - my new husband said that among a line of young children I was acting the youngest of all. Mickey Mouse and Disney were very important to me growing up, and now as an adult I have learnt to appreciate the movies and cartoons as a real art-form.
Cat, Berkshire, UK

Disney has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember (I am 25). Mickey Mouse really does make you smile no matter how old you are. We visit Disney theme parks every year and they are like a small utopia for the child in all of us.
Laura Emma, Haslington, Cheshire, UK

I went to Disneyland in Florida with my girlfriend when we both turned 18. As soon as we walked through the gates, we turned into kids again. Seeing Mickey Mouse was like seeing David Beckham - we became totally star-struck and had to have our pictures taken with him!
Peter Slaton, Northampton, UK

I have met Mickey Mouse on many occasions on holiday at Disney World. I must commend Disney for still bringing a little light into people's lives especially in these troubling times. Long may Mickey continue!
Mark, Weston, UK

The first time I met Mickey Mouse, I was three years old. I was not afraid of him as many young children are. I ran right up to him and gave him a huge hug! Luckily, my mum was there to snap the picture which is still framed in my house. 28 years later, I still look forward to him greeting me with a smile and a hug. I know it sounds silly, but when I see him, it takes me back to being a child. There is just something magical about that guy!
Summer, Alabama, US