Hilgay launches Britain's first gnome amnesty so locals can get rid of garden ornaments and raise funds for charitable causes

A West Norfolk village has launched Britain's first garden gnome amnesty - taking in the unwanted ornaments.

Locals in Hilgay launched the scheme so people can get rid of their unloved gnomes - and instead donate them to charity.

They are restored by resident Ali Dent, 65, who is upcycling them with his young grandson and sold in aid of Norfolk Hospice.

One person has already dropped off 25 gnomes.

Ali said: "I must have well over 50 now. They can take a while to do but that does vary.

"My grandson's been coming along to give me a hand. You've just got to get the right colours, that's the important thing."

There is now a growing pile of gnomes outside of Ali's house.

Ali, a semi-retired shopkeeper, said: "People have been bringing them to my house and leaving them outside when I'm not here.

"A bloke came the other day and left 25 of them."

Ali has raised over £120,000 for different charities such as the Stroke Association and Multiple Sclerosis Society and was made a MBE for his community work in 2006.

The gnomes will be going on sale on October 22 alongside donated books, in aid of Norfolk Hospice.