THE Lord of the Rings swept the boards at last night's Oscars - but the trilogy might never have been published if Tolkien had not visited Malvern more than 50 years ago.

In August, 1952, JRR Tolkien, disillusioned with publishers' refusal to print the books he had spent 14 years on, went to stay with his friend George Sayer, a teacher at Malvern College.

It was during walks on the Malvern Hills, which Tolkien compared to his now-famous White Mountains of Gondor, that he rediscovered his enthusiasm for his work.

Rayner Unwin, a former ex-pupil of Mr Sayer's, agreed to publish the novels and the rest is history.

Last night, the trilogy secured its move from cult books to epic status when director Peter Jackson's film was handed a record-equalling 11 Oscars from 11 nominations.

The Return of the King became the first fantasy film to win the best picture and director, and also scooped best score, song, film editing, make-up and costume design.

Its haul was completed by prizes for best adapted screenplay, art direction, visual effects and sound.

Jackson described it as "unbelievable" and thanked his "wonderful cast".

"I'm so honoured that the Academy and its members have seen past the trolls and the wizards and the hobbits and are recognising fantasy this year."

The two previous Lord of the Rings films picked up six Oscars in minor categories.