Families have fun at the third Kearsely Scarecrow Festival

The event, now in its third year, featured an array of imaginative creations from residents, businesses, organisations and schools, dotted all over the town.

A total of 137 scarecrows were placed around the area, including Stoneclough, Ringley and Prestolee for children of all ages to discover and enjoy.

Among the scarecrows waiting to be found were Wallace and Gromit, Mr Potato Head and a snooker player.

One creation that really left the judges buzzing was the bee scarecrow at Unity Brook Stables, winner of the business/organisation/group category.

It was inspired by schoolgirl Saoirse Cradden, aged 10, who has a pony at the stables, and was caught up in the Manchester Arena bombing in May, but escaped unhurt.

Katie Shorland, manager at the stables, said the idea came from the ‘Manchester bee’ which became a symbol of togetherness after the tragedy. She said: “Because Saoirse was involved we all thought ‘what better idea than this. It’s brought everyone together and all the kids have had a laugh and enjoyed themselves.”

The winner of the residential category were the Minions, from Despicable Me, in Kearsley Green.

And St Saviour’s won the schools category for the second year running with their One World One Family display of scarecrows.

Tracey Wilkinson, of organisers Kearsley Festival Committee, said: “We had a great effort from everybody who had scarecrows out. A lot of people have gone to a lot of effort to put on brilliant displays to the public.

“I want to thank people for that, without it all our work leading up to it would be pointless.”

She added: “The judges had a really difficult decision, there were so many good ideas. They had different opinions and it took them a while to make their decision.”