December 7th 2010

WEDMORE'S spoof art award The Turnip Prize was handed over for a truly mediocre effort on Monday night.

Graffiti artist Banksy was beaten by Doug Pitt, a collective of home grown talent from within Urban Planters consisting of Dave Gouldney, Alan Page and Jo Page, who live in and around Wedmore, whose apathetic entry - Chilli n'Minors - won over the judges.

Jo a member of the Doug Pitt trio said: “I am a Virnip (virgin turniper) and I am amazed to win this most coveted art award on my first occasion and I truly feel that the lack of effort has really paid off.

“I aimed low and luckily reached far lower than I could have dreamed.

“I am amazed at what my mediocrity and indifference has achieved and proud that my children have absolutely nothing to live up to.

“I knew the moment I came up with the idea I had stuck gold, I could feel it in my veins and couldn't wait to claim the prize.

“As an underground artist winning is a pipedream I can now certainly see the light at the end of the tunnel.”

Jo was awarded a turnip mounted on a six-inch nail for first place in the competition, which is a parody of the Turner Prize.

Organiser Trevor Prideaux said: “This year's event attracted a total of 69 entries, which by strange coincidence is exactly the same amount as last year.

“It's fantastic that the Doug Pitt collective has won, they clearly have what it takes to be recognised in modern art circles and will be remembered in art history for no time at all!"

• Top image - Jo Page with winning entry and turnip prize
• Bottom image - New Inn landlady Debbie Noon with Banksy's entry  
• The winning entry -  Go to, http://bit.ly/i4DmXv

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