Sheds are a common feature in gardens across the UK. Often, they are used as convenient storage places for items such as bikes,barbeques,patio furniture,DIY tools and other such things.
However,one individual has converted the shed in his family garden into a shrine to a BBC comedy.Darren Stride has spent five years working on his homage to Dad’s Army.
The 19-year-old became interested in the show when watching episodes of it with his grandfather.Beginning in 1968 and running for 11 years,the programme was based on the calamitous endeavours of a unit of the Home Guard during the Second World War.
Mr Stride is entering his creation into the National Shed of the Year competition. Many other unusual sheds are featuring this year,including one that has been converted into a pub.Over the years,the Bygones Museum, as its creator has dubbed it, has spilled over into three huts and, as well as two sheds, there is an Anderson war shelter made using corrugated iron.
Commenting on his chances of lifting first prize, he stated: “I’m just hoping for the best but I’m sure we can do it.”He added: “Ever since my museum became known we have had people knocking on the door and asking to look round. I have even given conducted tours to Scout groups. My idea is to give Second World War talks dressed up in uniform.”
He went on to thank everyone who has supported him in his efforts to create the homage to times gone by.He paid particular tribute to his grandfather,who passed away in 2001 at the age of 75.Mr Stride remarked: “I’d like to think he’s up there smiling on what I have achieved so far as well as chuckling away with me at episodes of Dad’s Army.”