UK: DEVON: WOMAN WHO COLLECTS GARDEN GNOMES

English/Nat

It's not uncommon for people in England to keep a toy gnome in their garden. But one English woman has built up quite a collection.

With more than two-thousand little pixies, Ann Atkin is believed to have the world's largest collection of gnomes.

Each year thousands of visitors drop by to experience a little magic.

Painter Ann Atkin says that 20 years ago, a little gnome told her to spread joy and happiness in the world.

She followed its advice and began collecting the little leprechauns... creating the world's largest gnome reserve in the world.

She has more than two-thousand little imps scattered around her back garden in Devon.

The gnome park has become something of an attraction for tourists - with 25-thousand people visiting the reserve each summer.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"It's a place of dreams isn't it? It's magic, It's a little bit of life which is not seen everyday. Well, I say this is the real world! It's the magic and the enchantment of it and the dreams and the fun and the humour!"
SUPERCAPTION: Ann Atkin, Gnome Lady

Ann lives with her son and his family - who all play a role in the gnome business.

Ann's son Richard is the chief gnome maker. He sells them by the thousands.

Like his mother, he believes there is definitely something extraordinary about the gnomes.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"There is something about the little people. I think there is more to them that meets the eye.. there's something about them!"
SUPERCAPTION: Richard Atkin, Chief Gnome Maker

Some neighbours are bit sceptical of the family's attraction..

SOUNDBITE: "To me, a gnome is just a chunk of concrete. To talk to some concrete? It's a bit weird."
SUPERCAPTION: Serena Thomas, Gnomophobe

Children in particular love the imaginary circle, where they can sit and make wishes.

Whether the little creatures really are just chunks of stone, or something much more magical, it is impossible to tell.

But for many here, they add a touch of magic to their lives.


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