Chris Otterburn's meticulously crafted board game haven, known as Otty's Hobby Shed 2.0, has been named the UK's Shed of the Year. The dedicated space serves as a weekly gathering point for friends to play tabletop games and to honor their late friend, Scott Forrest.

Otterburn hosts a weekly game night every Thursday, featuring an 18-foot gaming table, ample storage for game boards and miniatures, and a dedicated station for making tea. The shed's interior is lined with navy walls adorned with artwork, thematic decor, and collectibles such as Stormtrooper helmets and Lord of the Rings merchandise. Cozy seating areas further enhance the immersive atmosphere.

Now, glass display cases line the navy painted walls, which also feature artwork, thematic decor to immerse the players - as well as 'nerdy' gear including Stormtrooper helmets and Lord of the Rings merch - and cosy chairs and sofas

The shed's construction began with friends collaborating to build it while Scott Forrest was undergoing cancer treatment, with the hope that he would be able to join them. Tragically, Scott passed away before the project's completion. A memorial area within the shed is now dedicated to him, ensuring his presence is felt during every game night.

Friends rallied together to help build it up while one of their closest friends, Scott Forrest, was undergoing cancer treatment, hoping he would be able to enjoy it with them. However, sadly, Scott passed away before the shed was completed

Dave, a friend of Otterburn, submitted the nomination, noting Otterburn's lack of tech-savviness and his humility regarding the project's scope. Dave emphasized the shed's significance as a weekly meeting place for the friends to share their hobby and remember Scott.

Andrew Wilcox, founder and head judge of Shed of the Year, highlighted the emotional core of Otty's Hobby Shed 2.0, stating that while the build was exceptional, the story behind it secured its victory. He described the shed as more than just a garden building, but a sanctuary where friendships are strengthened and memories are preserved.

It was originally built to house tabletop wargaming memorabilia, but quickly expanded into what has now been dubbed Otty's Hobby Shed 2.0

Many materials used in the construction were reclaimed or recycled, including tabletops from a local pub and cabinets made from discarded furniture. The Shed of the Year competition, now in its 20th year, is run by Tiger, a garden building specialist.

Sam Jenkinson, Head of Marketing and Chief Sheddie at Tiger, noted the high quality of entries and praised Otty's Hobby Shed 2.0 for embodying the competition's spirit of community and shared passion.