STAFF at the Ockment Centre have launched an investigation after a group of gnomes mysteriously appeared on the premises.

The gnomes have taken up residence in the centre?s community garden, but are in need desperate need of some tender loving care.

According to Okehampton gardening expert Tim Argles, who is working on the community garden, a note was left with the gnomes saying: ?Thank you for our gnome home, Tim.?

When Mr Argles was on BBC Radio Devon one day on his regular gardening spot he mentioned the gnomes and said it was a shame there was not one with a fishing rod.

Lo and behold what should turn up shortly afterwards but a fisherman gnome, again looking as though he was a bit worse for wear.

?I think these are all retired gnomes because they are a bit old and battered,? he said. ?We are quite concerned about their welfare and they could all do with a once-over at the nearest gnome health centre.?

Regular gnome patrols are taking place at the Ockment Centre and the investigators know that the culprit is a high tech expert because all-singing and dancing gnomes on computer disk are the latest to arrive at the centre.

?It?s a complete mystery which we want local people to help to solve,? added Tim. ?Also, if anyone can come up with suitable gnomes, sorry names, for our new additions, we would be pleased to hear from them.?

Anyone who has information should call the Ockment Centre on 01837 53276.