Birds' nest awarded Turnip Prize

Mr "Osenthroat" said his lack of effort this year paid off

An empty birds' nest with a box of flu remedy is this year's winner of Somerset's alternative arts award, the Turnip Prize.

Its creator, who gave his name as Ian Osenthroat, received his turnip trophy at the New Inn in Wedmore on Monday.

The 69-year-old former photocopier salesmen described his work, Birds Flew, as "feathery and titanic".

The award for bad art was set up by pub regulars as a poke in the eye to the controversial Turner Prize.

'Strange coincidence'

Mr "Osenthroat" said: "I have entered this most coveted art award on several occasions and I really feel that the lack of effort this year has really paid off.

"The nest was located within my garage and every year the little darlings would arrive and proceed to defecate all over my precious white van."

Organiser Trevor Prideaux added: "This year's event attracted a total of 69 entries, which by strange coincidence is exactly the same amount as last year.

"It's fantastic that Ian has won. At 69 years old, he is our second oldest winner and it's one in the bird's eye to the Tate's Turner Prize, which is an ageist competition."