The Flight of the Saltire

[Colin]

this 'traveling gnome' idea came frae the French film Amelie

Actually it started in Australia in 1986. Something tells me some libations may have been involved.

From Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Travelling_gnome_prank

The tradition was first recorded in Australia in the 1980s. Although not definitive, the following blurb appeared in the Regular Shorts feature of the Sydney Morning Herald of September 24, 1986: 'AN EASTERN suburbs gnome-owner was distressed when she discovered her gnome had been stolen at the weekend. A note was found in its place: "Dear mum, couldn't stand the solitude any longer. Gone off to see the world. Don't be worried, I'll be back soon. Love Bilbo xxx."'

I remember hearing about these in the 1990's while still in school. I think Amelie added the idea to the masses.