Dubbed the Essex Taj Mahal, Grayson’s dream house project in Wrabness is certainly a sight to behold.

The unlikely inspiration for the intricately-designed property is a fictional character called Julie Cope.

Grayson says the character was born on Canvey in 1953 and married a man called Dave, had two children and lived in Basildon and South Woodham Ferrers, before an affair ended their marriage.

In the story, she then married a man called Rob, but she was tragically knocked down and killed in a road accident in Colchester. Rob built A House For Essex in her memory and there is a grave with a bench in the garden.

The two-bedroom house contains items she might have accumulated during her life, from the books on the shelves to the type of toilet in the bathroom.

Even her death is featured in a large tapestry in the lounge area of the home – and the moped that is responsible for killing her is hanging from the ceiling, acting as a chandelier.

There is speculation that Grayson, who grew up in Chelmsford, based part of the character on his mum Jean Dines, 79, from who he is estranged.

As part of the Channel 4 documentary, Grayson Perry’s Dream House, six real-life Julies were recruited from the area to join the artist on a bike ride around Essex following the character’s timeline, comparing their own life stories along the way.

Gift shop worker Julie Moore-Dale, 55, from Earls Colne, enjoyed a unique opportunity to feature alongside Grayson in a TV documentary.

She explained: “It was a brilliant experience. It was emotional as well, as we got really into the story of Julie.

“I deliberately didn’t do any research before being on the programme, because I wanted to take everything in as it came to me.”

Filming took place about five weeks ago, but Ms Moore-Dale was sworn to secrecy until the programme went out.

She added: “The house is really impressive. Mr Perry was really hospitable and everyone was friendly. I really enjoyed the experience. All us Julies got together to watch it when it was shown and we had a great laugh.

“We are all going to keep in touch and are planning to meet again.”

On the subject of the property, Grayson said: “A big influence in my work has always been religious architecture. I’ve had some of my most powerful artistic experiences in cathedrals and churches and temples, so the opportunity to build one I couldn’t resist.

“My original designs were a bit hobbity and Game of Thrones, but architect Charles Holland talked me down and gave the thing some modern dignity.”

The land in Wrabness was home to a derelict farmhouse, which already had planning permission for a five-bed house.

He said there was a chance the home could be opened to the public in the future, but said he did not want to swamp the village.

The documentary can still be seen online at channel4.com.