A WORCESTER man is spreading some cheer by repairing garden gnomes.

Simon Horton set up the "Gnome Surgery" after sharing his work on Facebook.

He said: "I have always kept gnomes, much to my wife's disappointment.

"We were doing up the garden and I thought they looked a bit shabby so I repainted them.

"I shared the photos on the WR3 residents group Facebook page and since then, so many people have asked me about refurbishing theirs."

Mr Horton's work has transformed more than 50 garden gnomes, giving them a fresh new look and bringing a smile to the faces of their owners.

He added: "I have had people offer me money but I don't want it. I am doing it for free as it is something I enjoy doing and it brings a smile to everyone's face.

"Some people have stories attached to their gnomes, which might have belonged to their gran or someone - so there is immense sentimental value to them.

"It is really special to be able to make something with such sentimental value look nice again and I have discovered that gnome owners are some really nice people."

In restoring the gnomes, Mr Horton uses modelling paint, which he says is more durable than the varnish some gnomes are painted in.

He added: "I did a bit of research but there is no written thing out there which says 'this is how you do it'.

"I work for a paint company, so know a bit about the different types.

"For gnomes, you have to buy massive quantities so I use modelling paint - it is really durable and then advise people to get them sprayed with lacquer."

Mr Horton said he plans to paint more gnomes and leave some around with a note for people to pick up and keep if it makes them smile.

To see more photos of Simon Horton's amazing restorations, go to www.facebook.com/The-Gnome-Surgery-100209412359319