The 10th Turnip

THIS year marks the 10th anniversary of possibly the most effortless art competition in Somerset - The Turnip Prize.

Since it was first created in Wedmore in 1999, following a conversation between regulars at the George Hotel, the competition has attracted national media attention and many entries of completely rubbish art.

Previous winners include Chloe Wilson in 2001 whose piece 'Nothing' was literally nothing.

Other winning entries include Ian Osenthroat's 'Bird's Flew', which consisted of an empty bird nest containing flu medicine, and David Stone's 'Alfred the Great', which was made up of a fire grate containing two burnt loaves.

Last year's winner was Bracey Vermin with Tea-P, which was made of tea bags arranged in the shape of a P.

All those lucky enough to win the competition have been presented with the coveted trophy of a turnip mounted on a rusty nail, which they have returned the following year sporting a fresh turnip.

Organiser Trevor Prideaux said: "The idea of the competition first came about when a group of us sat in the George Hotel were talking about the Turner Prize and Tracey Emin's bed exhibit, which looked quite effortless.

"So we thought if they can do it and win money, then we can do it and win a turnip.

"If you have got a bit of a gripe with the Turner Prize and believe you could produce something equally as rubbish as its entrants do, then you should take part in Wedmore's equivalent."

Last year's competition was made especially interesting after an anonymous, Banksy-style entry was left outside Trevor's house.

Despite the piece, called By The Banksea, being disqualified for involving too much effort it's creators have vowed to enter again this year.

Entries are now being accepted for next month's competition and the closing date is November 17.

Final judging will take place at The New Inn in Combe Batch on December 1 from 6.30pm.

To enter call Trevor on 01934 710004 or 01275 333345 or James Timms on 07920 877540.