A MAN from Mere spent the previous Covid-19 lockdown constructing a model of the village church that he could see from his garden.

Brian Gillard, retired, spent around one month creating the St Michael’s Church spectacle from timber.

The 81-year-old said he was inspired to recreate the building as he could see it perfectly from his home, adding he “just decided to do it”.

As a starting point he went to the site to analyse the finer details and take photographs.

“It was something to do and kept me busy during these current circumstances,” Brian said.

Across the Christmas period Brian displayed the finished model outside his house, catching the attention of passers-by.

He added: “People were very interested and took photos, they enjoyed looking at it.”

Previously a builder, Brian is creating a doll house during the current coronavirus lockdown.

In the actual St Michael’s Church, refurbishment is underway in a Covid-secure manner, including new toilets, kitchenette and an upgrade to the main entrance.