Jacob McPeake has joined the bricktastic team at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Manchester as its newest Master Model Builder, celebrating his new role with an impressive moving nutcracker build.

Jacob, 37, recently landed one of the world’s most coveted roles of being paid to build LEGO and is now responsible for creating showstopping LEGO sculptures and inspiring the next generation of builders at the attraction, combining his passions for brick-building and working with children.

Jacob is now responsible for creating awesome LEGO masterpieces for the Manchester attraction and has already contributed his first build with an impressive nutcracker figure in time for Christmas.

Standing at 1m tall, the cracking sculpture is complete with a lever at the back to create the moving mouth and took a staggering 16 hours to build.

When asked about his first festive creation, Jacob said: “I wanted to build something that had a moving element to it and ties into our Christmas Bricktacular event. Thankfully, the build wasn’t too challenging as there’s only one moving part but I wanted to ensure that the nutcracker was perfect and that took some time.”

Children who also dream of building LEGO for a living can put their skills to the test at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre’s ‘Christmas Bricktacular’, where they can build their very own Christmas tree or decoration to be displayed at the attraction for all to see.

While Jacob only discovered LEGO in adulthood, he is now a brick fanatic and frequently spends his spare time making new creations: “I enjoy LEGO for its endless options, not to mention it’s fun and relaxing.

“The Master Model Builder role encompasses everything that I enjoy, and obviously I get to play with LEGO all day, what’s not to love?!”

Jacob is no stranger to putting his creativity to the test, previously designing, and building a complex Pokémon Gigantamax Alcremie as well as creating giant superheroes using extra-large foam bricks at one of the centre’s adult only events.

Originally from the Lake District, Jacob previously worked in the guest experience team but was eager to put his creativity and imagination to use, applying for the Master Model Builder role as soon as it became available.

When he’s not crafting LEGO sculptures, Jacob will be responsible for hosting creative workshops and inspiring guests to build their own wonderful creations.

“My favourite part of the job is being creative and inspiring others, and I’m looking forward to seeing children’s unique perspectives and their imaginative creations.

“Starting the role at this time of year has felt magical, I’ve especially loved turning Miniland into a winter wonderland as it looks so festive.”

Jenn McDonough, General Manager at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Manchester said: “We’re thrilled to have Jacob join the team as our new Master Model Builder. His passion for LEGO and building skills really shone in his application, not to mention his eagerness to inspire the next generation of builders through workshops and classes.

“His nutcracker build with the moving piece is phenomenal, and we’re very proud to have it on display. We can’t wait to see how he takes these skills to the next level with many more wonderful creations.”

To see the nutcracker for yourself and experience LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Manchester’s Bricktacular Christmas event, book tickets via: https://www.legolanddiscoverycentre.com/manchester/whats-inside/events/christmas-bricktacular/