A hobbit-style garden hideaway has been crowned Britain’s best shed.
And its creator, Lord of the Rings fan Chris Hield, 49, is thrilled at the accolade.
He said: “I’m delighted - and in shock. We are massive Lord of the Rings fans so when we decided to build our own shed we knew it had to be a hobbit hole.
“It had to fit in with the wildlife and nature that we have cultivated in the rest of our garden so the grass roof was a big feature.
“Whenever we got any seeds for wild flowers we have just thrown them over the top of the shed and they have thrived.
“We have seen so much wildlife since adding the shed - so much so it distracts me when I’m working in there!
“We have a blackbird nest in the eaves of the shed as well as robins who we have seen hatch from eggs to baby birds and there are the butterflies and bees that swarm the flowers.
“It really is a haven for nature so I am over the moon that I’ve won such a great competition.”
The competition, sponsored by woodcare brand Cuprinol, returned for its 13th year - with over 3,000 entrants to seven categories.
After securing the most public votes in the Nature’s Haven category, Chris, from Buxton, Derbyshire, was selected as the overall winner of the prestigious crown with his shed, which he named Bux End.
As well as the coveted title Chris has been presented with £1,000, a wooden plaque, £100 worth of Cuprinol products as well as a giant crown for the super shed.
Founder and Head Judge, Andrew Wilcox said, “Once again the Great British sheddie didn’t disappoint. It was great to see how brilliantly creative this years entrants have been and to see Chris come out on top with his beautifully natural Bux End.
“This year, Cuprinol discovered that more than a third of Brits allow nature to take over part of their garden, so we thought it was only right to reflect that with the addition of a Nature’s Haven category and the entrants really excited us.
“It seems only fitting that Bux End championed this year’s competition celebrating the nation’s natural approach to the great outdoors.”
Kirsty Woodbine, Marketing Manager for Cuprinol, added: “For many people, the garden is an extension of their home and a place where they are increasingly spending more time.”
