Others will plan trips exclusively around picking up rare items. “During Disneyland Paris’s 30th anniversary, a limited celebration print by Kevin & Jody was released titled Characters Of Fantasyland,” says Sam. “So when I visited Disneyland Paris that year, it was a top priority for me to find one.”

Perhaps the compelling element behind Disney’s enduring appeal among adults is nostalgia. For all of the self-proclaimed Disney adults I spoke to, Disney provides a clear and treasured link back to childhood. “So many of my favourite memories of my childhood are based around Disney, whether it’s trips to the cinema to see the latest film, Disney character-themed birthday cakes or a family holiday to the parks,” explains Georgina, a 29-year-old child therapist. “I don’t tend to talk about it with strangers because I am conscious that people might think I’m a weirdo, but it’s hard for me to think of my family without all the incredible Disney-related memories.”

For Rachael, revisiting Disney theme parks provides an even more poignant link to the past. “I grew up going there with my mum and dad,” she says. “Sadly my dad passed away when I was 16, so now whenever I go it reminds me of him and I get to remember that nostalgic element of being a kid and carefree.” Critics are quick to suggest that Disney adults are childish, but there’s clearly value in maintaining a connection to childhood, whether that’s to mourn losses or simply recapture youthful innocence.

“Nostalgia is a sentimental longing for one’s past, and has all sorts of psychological, social and even existential benefits – a more positive affect, higher self-esteem, more optimism and lower stress,” says Lynn Zubernis, a psychologist and professor who has published four books based on the psychology of fandom. “Being able to revisit and tap into one’s past also is helpful in terms of identity, creating a sense of self-continuity and alignment with the true self – and a sense of youthfulness that is particularly helpful as people move into adulthood.”

Inside the weird and wonderful world of adult Disney obsessives