Green-fingered George Buttriss has become a monster hit with the news that the pint sized youngster has been crowned a vegetable growing champion.

The three-and-a-half year old beat the gardening gurus and heavyweights at this year’s Peterborough Autumn Show to walk away with the coveted prize for the largest pumpkin in the giant vegetable competition.

George’s mum Kerry, who works as agricultural manager at the Peterborough Arena and East of England Showground, said: “George was given the pumpkin plant from a friend and he ploughed his garden and put it in.”

The youngster, who lives at Terrington St Clement, cherished the seed in the soil at his home at Terrington St Clement. which his mum said was great for growing.

“He set up a mini irrigation hose pipe throughout the hot weather and carefully looked after it. We were just having a bit of fun with his friend as a mini competition and when we saw how big it was getting I entered it into the giant vegetable competition.

“It was all a bit of fun really, we never thought he would win. I think some of the experts may have been shocked that a three and a half year old won!”

With the pumpkin weighing a mighty 75kg, organisers of the competition have given George some expert tips and encouraged him to enter again next year.

George will be saving the seeds to sow next season, while his dad now has the mammoth task of turning the pumpkin into a Halloween lantern.

Hundreds of visitors braved the weekend weather to enjoy the Autumn Show – packed with animal antics, trade stands, food court and a visit by Peppa Pig and her family.