Record bid for matchstick oil rig

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Mr Reynolds is hoping to set a new world record

A man from Hampshire who has spent 15 years making a model oil rig out of four million matches is hoping for a place in the record books.

David Reynolds, 51, from Swaythling in Southampton, has finally finished a replica of the Brent Bravo oil rig in the North Sea where he used to work.

It is so big it had to be made in 14 separate parts and now has a temporary home at Bursledon Brickworks Museum.

Mr Reynolds is waiting for confirmation his model is a world record.

The current record for the most matches used to make a model stands at three-and-a-half million matches.

I am absolutely sick to death at the sight of a matchstick Mr Reynolds' wife Julie

Mr Reynolds, who made the model in his spare time over 15 years, said: "Most people watch about six or seven hours of television in the evening, you multiple that by seven, that's 40 hours a week.

"Whereas at the end of 40 hours work on the model I have something to show for it.

"Early this year I was thinking of breaking it up because it took up two bedrooms, the loft, two sheds and half my garage."

But he was able to move his creation to Bursledon Brickworks Museum.

Mr Reynolds' wife Julie said: "I am absolutely sick to death at the sight of a matchstick but I think there is still more to come unfortunately.

"But at least I know where he is and what he's doing, so I'd rather have him there than down the pub."