Nuclear shelter in Norfolk is Grade II listed

The Cold War shelter was built in 1982, a period of heightened Cold War tension following Russia's invasion of Afghanistan

A DIY nuclear fallout shelter built in a back garden during heightened Cold War fears has received Grade II-listed status.

The bunker, built in Taverham, Norfolk, in 1982, stood as a reminder of the public's "fear" in the Cold War years, Heritage Minister Tracey Crouch said.

It was constructed by Noel Barrett to protect him and his family in the event of a nuclear blast.

He worked on it during weekends and included a spa bath and carpeting.

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The shelter is made of reinforced concrete, steel, brick and polythene with timber panelling

While domestic shelters were commercially available during the Cold War, few were built.

Mr Barrett's bespoke, one-storey structure took almost six months of weekend work to complete. It has now been formally recognised for its rarity, design and historic interest.

Heritage Minister Tracey Crouch, who made the decision to list the bunker, said: "This unique building is a clear reminder of the fear and anxiety that was present throughout the country during the Cold War. Though never used, it's a part of history that should be conserved for generations to come and this Grade II listing will help do that."

The bunker includes a spa bath

Retired fish and chip shop owner Mr Barrett said his experience working as a driver at Sculthorpe air base near Fakenham, Norfolk, in the 1960s had given him an insight into the Cold War and the military's readiness for action.

Mr Barrett said the spa bath was not in use although he did vacuum clean the carpet.

He said he was "delighted" by the shelter's listed status. "It's an achievement for a good old country boy like me."

The decision to grant listed status was based on the nuclear shelter's rarity, design, and historic interest