Tolkien fan creates 'fantasy' map of Nottinghamshire

A fan of fantasy fiction has recreated the map of Nottinghamshire in homage to the Lord of the Rings creator JRR Tolkien.

Enthusiast Chris Birse's reimagining of the county includes current landmarks along with illustrations you might find in a fantasy novel.

The 37-year-old has drawn maps of 40 English counties, asking locals for their ideas each time.

He said he hoped to one day create an entire "Tolkien-esque style" atlas.

Mr Birse spent one month researching and drawing the map to honour Nottinghamshire's "rich history", he said.

He began his unexpected journey of map-drawing four years ago, when he needed a front cover for a novel he was writing.

The first map he drew was of his hometown of Teesside, in the North East.

He said he shares his incomplete maps on social media, asking what local people wish to see.

"It's harder work than it seems, believe me," he added.

For the Nottinghamshire map, Mr Birse said local suggestions seemed to stem from "unsung history", making it one of his favourites.

"Obviously Nottingham is rich in history so it ranks pretty high," he said.

While his "ultimate goal" is to create a huge atlas of fantasy maps, Mr Birse said until then, he will continue to sell his artworks online.

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