Scarecrow trail fills void as Covid-19 cancels fair

A village replaced its summer fete with a scarecrow trail which proved a hit with residents.

The annual pleasure fayre held in Boughton Aluph had to be called off due to Covid-19, but was replaced with a number of kooky homemade characters dotted around the village over the July 11-12 weekend.

Villager Nikki Ellis came up with the idea for the ‘Scarecrow Safari’, which saw figures placed in front of homes and around the green, Faversham Road, Pilgrims Way and Wye Road.

To ensure social distancing, spaces were marked out by the cricket club’s groundsman Vic Lilley at two metres apart.

The village was bustling with people enjoying the safari, while passers-by stopped to ask what the eye-catching array was for before having a wander around themselves.

All money raised will go into the pleasure fayre fund, which is used to maintain the Iron Room, which is the village hall.

Resident Ann Hardie said: “The main memory of the weekend was lots of smiles and laughter during this tough time.”

Prizes were handed out for best scarecrow with the over12 winner being Little Billing and second place going to Ruscombe Barn.

The under-12 victor was Thea Constance while New House took the runner-up spot.

Best business display went to Perry Court and the best school, club or society was Challock Primary School.

The people’s choice vote went to Jardine.

Next year, the pleasure fayre will take place on Saturday, June 12, with the 'Scarecrow Safari' set to return over the July 10-11 weekend.

Money raised from the event will go towards the upkeep of the village hall

Pictures: www.cat8smithphotography.com The event proved popular with villagers in Boughton Aluph

The Little Billing scarecrow won the over-12 category

The trail will return in 2021 following its successful debut, right, a litter-picking scarecrow caught the eye at this month’s event