CAN we through your letters page convey our appreciation to the many people and organisations who supported our Scarecrow Festival in Kearsley.

Thanks to the Churches on the Mount for initial support for the idea of the festival. To Jon Lord and Mark Turnbull of Bolton at Home who gave us the confidence to move on by their providing initial funding. To the local coiuncillors of Kearsley and Farnworth their support. To all our other sponsors and supporters at Wells House Kindergarten, Kids Kapers, Craftprint, Ryders Farm,Whittam Photography and local resident Peter Flitcroft. The endorsements from Easylawn Turf Supplies, Eden Photography, Charltons Sweeper Hire, Bolton Music Services, Unity Brook Inn, Kearsley Youth Brass Band, Party Dogs Hire. To all our Churches, Pubs, Cafes & Restaurants and Schools for providing their services and use of facilities.

On the day we had three brilliant guest judges in Mayor, Carole Swarbrick, actor Bruno Langley and Miss Charity Bolton & Bury, Christina Cunningham. Their time and patience in visiting and viewing all the 211 Scarecrow displays was much appreciated.

To all the entrants who spent time building these exhibits to excellent standards, you displayed the many talents that we possess in Kearsley. To the many visitors who travelled in from other parts of the borough and beyond, your presence added to the enjoyment on the day of seeing thousands of people walking, cycling and driving around our community. The benefits to our community have been social interaction, promotion of community spirit and our the impact on the local economy. Feedback tells us that sales in the many shops, pubs and other outlets more than doubled on Saturday.

A special mention to James and his Community Payback Team, based at Schoenstatt/St John Fisher, for their contribution and help when we needed it most.

We would also like to thank the valuable advice we received from Blackrod Scarecrow Festival organiser Jean Hibbert.

Finally to our wonderful organising group for their time and dedication. At the time of writing this letter our total funding raised as reached £6,000 and still rising. Should anyone like a souvenir copy of our programme they are available at 50p each. Call 01204 776635 or emailkearsleyscarecrowfestival@hotmail.com

Tracey Wilkinson - Festival Leader

Stephen Tonge - Chair COM