GARDENER Mal Carter likes to think big when it comes to nurturing what he grows – and his philosophy has proved a winner.

The latest giant pumpkin he grew tipped the scales’ at a staggering 465kgs – which is more than the weight of five baby elephants.

And it took a crane to lift it into position for the annual giant pumpkin competition at the York Maze Halloween Festival.

The monster gourd easily took first place – and won Mal, from Middlesbrough, a winner’s cheque for £500 in the process.

“I’m thrilled to have won," her said afterwards.

“I’ve been growing giant pumpkins for years but this is by far the biggest I’ve ever grown. All those years of pumpkin growing have finally paid off.”

The Northern Echo: WHAT  A CARVE-UP: Christian Russell turns the giant pumpkin into the UK’s biggest pumpkin carving.
WHAT A CARVE-UP: Christian Russell turns the giant pumpkin into the UK’s biggest pumpkin carving

Mal’s giant pumpkin is now being turned into the UK’s biggest pumpkin carving by professional 3D artist Christian Russell.

Along with other entries to the competition, it will be on display at York Maze as part of their Hallowe’n festival until November 1.