Cracking idea by 'Wallace' fan Sam, five

A WALLACE & Gromit-style idea patented by a five-year-old is among the UK's top 15 "ingenious" inventions of the past decade, according to the British Library.

Sam Houghton, now aged eight, came up with his idea - a double-headed broom - at the age of three while watching his father sweep up garden leaves.

Experts have now termed the product, which was designed to collect large debris and fine dust simultaneously, one of the "most inspiring" inventions of the past ten years.

The product forms part of an exhibition which opens today at The British Library.

Sam, from Buxton, Derbyshire, was granted an official patent and is thought to be the youngest Briton yet to hold one. At the time, the youngster said he was inspired by his heroes Wallace & Gromit, the animated characters who get into trouble with Wallace's outlandish inventions.

Other inventions to be featured in the exhibition include the Road Refresher Dog Bowl - an idea rejected on Dragons' Den. Natalie Ellis's creation enables animals to drink in a moving car without water spilling on to the seats.

An innovative baby bottle which warms milk to the correct temperature every time was also selected, along with the Mosquito Security System designed to tackle antisocial behaviour.

Every year, the UK generates some 25,000 patents, trademarks and design rights.