Thousands of families enjoyed a behind the scenes look at JCB at the weekend as the doors to the company's world headquarters were thrown open to raise money for the NSPCC.

The event on Saturday attracted more than 5,000 people – with queues to get in forming an hour before the official opening. Awaiting the visitors was a feast of attractions including tours of production areas normally reserved for customers and dealers and an appearance from the world's fastest digger, the 150mph JCB GT.

But the biggest cheers were reserved for the JCB Dancing Diggers with crowds flocking to seven performances during the day. Machinery fans were also treated to displays of modern JCB products lining up alongside classic JCB machines from decades past. The JCB Dieselmax, the world's fastest diesel car, which broke the world diesel land speed record in 2006, was also on show.

Backhoe Loader Business Unit Managing Director Paul Grys said: "It was an excellent day with a fantastic atmosphere. The positive feedback we had from those attending made it all worthwhile and everyone who came along should be proud that their support will help some of the most vulnerable young people in Staffordshire."

The fun-filled event was organised as part of the company's £1 million 'Reaching Out to Children in Staffordshire' NSPCC Appeal. It was a rare chance to tour the Rocester factory and see how the world-famous backhoe loaders and Loadall telescopic handlers are manufactured – the first time in three years the World HQ has opened its doors to the public.

Money from the NSPCC appeal will go towards a new centre in Stafford to help vulnerable young people at risk of cruelty. The facility will offer all of the NSPCC's specialist services under one roof and will be accessible to every young person across Staffordshire.