THE sudden appearance of a mooning garden gnome outside a pub has sparked a mystery invasion of ornaments.

When the derrière flashing figure was left outside The Old Bush in Callow End a month ago, its landlords never believed it would cause a rush of gnomes descending on their pub.

In that time, more than 25 gnomes have been placed opposite the pub and sent through the post, perplexing owners Matt and Karen Williams.

Mr Williams said: “The first gnome appeared overnight - I’ve got no idea who put it there.

“I went out and fetched a couple more gnomes myself just so he wasn’t on his own.

“Then suddenly all these gnomes started appearing.

“People were putting gnomes out on the grass and then we were getting some sent through the post. They’re still coming through now.

“I’ve honestly got no idea who is sending them or where they are coming from.

“They’re not cheap either. Some people are mad.”

Gnomes in all shapes and sizes are now sat opposite the pub with more continuing to fall through the letterbox each week.

Mrs Williams said: “I love it. I think it’s really funny and a great laugh. It’s nice to have them all outside.

“We’ve asked a lot of people and grilled a few locals but everybody is staying quiet. They’re not saying anything.

“One came the other day wrapped up in a crisp box. We’ve had couriers delivering packages.

“None of them have had the sender’s address on so I couldn’t even say if they are being sent by locals.

“They could be coming from anywhere.”

“I’m the chef so I guess I like the chef one the most,” added Mrs Williams.

“Although I do like the biker gnome - we had a fair few people in our old pub that looked a bit like that.”

Mr and Mrs Williams reopened the pub in Upton Road pub three years ago after a successful campaign by villagers to save it from turning into a home.

Mr Williams returned to the bar he first served from in the 1980s and 90s.