GARDEN enthusiasts across Dorset are asked to get 'sheddie' as the annual Shed of the Year competition is back.

Returning for its 15th year, the competition invites entrants to submit their creations into one of the seven categories, including the Lockdown category, introduced last year.

Last year, Cuprinol’s Shed of the Year competition saw Dorset contestant Tim Kerridge make it to the shortlist with Silas the Silo.

Founder and head judge, Andrew Wilcox said: “Since the competition started 15 years ago, we’ve seen some brilliantly creative uses of sheds.

"We’ve seen people retreat to their sheds as a place of respite and sanctuary and the imagination going into them has been particularly impressive.

"We cannot wait to see the amazing ways people have used their sheds this year."

Cuprinol is encouraging more sheddies from Dorset to enter again and share their shed-creations.

With around 100 entries already, this year’s competition looks set to be the biggest one yet.

Multiple lockdowns have been keeping the nation at home, so 'sheddies' have been getting creative in the garden.

Last year’s entries saw a rise in multi-functional shed spaces, including offices, garden pubs, schools and PPE workshops and last year's Cuprinol Shed of the Year winner even donated his prize money to charity.

Marianne Shillingford, Cuprinol's creative director, said: "Our garden sheds are more than just a place to put our tools - they're a wonderful creative outlet for an individual’s unique artistic vision.

"Over the years, sheds have become an extension of the home and one of the most important rooms in the house.

"This past year we've seen people transcend the boundaries of what we think a shed could be and working on them has a much-needed passion project during a time of uncertainty and instability."

Entries need to include a selection of the best photos & video of your dazzling designs along with an explanation of your inspiration and what makes your shed stand out.

This year’s categories are: budget, cabin and summerhouse, pub and entertainment, unexpected and unique, workshop and studio, and nature's haven.

Lockdown Entries can be submitted via readersheds.co.uk until Monday 12th April.

The shortlist will then be selected by a panel of judges before the public vote opens to select the nation’s favourite shed for 2021.

Category winners will be announced in August, with the overall winner awarded with £1,000 prize money and £100 worth of Cuprinol products.

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