A SPECTACULAR garden knitted and crocheted by 1,560 people from the age of three to 99 has taken temporary root in Bournemouth Library.

The garden – thought to be the biggest of its kind ever created – includes ponds, gnomes, a garden shed, a washing line of knickers, a vegetable patch, slugs, snails, birds, bees, butterflies and much more.

There is even a green man, who is currently reading a romantic novel, and a knitted barbecue, complete with food.

A total of 42 different organisations took part in the project, including local youth clubs, Brownies, churches, day centres, choirs, primary schools, and university students, as well as craft, knitting and crochet groups.

Artist and organiser Pauline Stanley said: “The project has been running for the last six months and is a great success with lots of skill-sharing taking place between different generations and nationalities.

“The public have responded with awe and wonder to the size and quality of the work.

“The knitted garden is stunning and makes everyone smile.

“It has been a joyful project to run and has fired everyone’s creativity and imagination.”

Medi Bernard, service and strategy manager for Bournemouth Libraries, which were partners in the project with Bournemouth arts department, said: “We are delighted to be hosting this intriguing exhibition.

“Congratulations to all the knitting groups and individuals for creating a beautiful and surprising display for everyone to enjoy.”

The knitted garden will remain at the central library until June 4 and will later go on display at Kinson Library.

It is also available for hire and Pauline is looking for other venues so it can tour around the UK.