Stuff this for a carry on - scarecrow fest is making its return!
MORE THAN 80 FAMILY FUN
AFTER a two-year absence due to the coronavirus pandemic, a popular Leicestershire event returns this weekend.
The Heather Scarecrow Festival will open on Sunday, July 31 and run until Sunday, August 7, and according to organisers is back with renewed energy and even more entries than usual.
Visitors will be able to see more than 80 creations on display this year. The event provides an opportunity for families to get out and discover all of the displays spread out around the village, and vote for their favourites.
In addition to the scarecrows, you’ll be able to see a special feature by local artist Tomas Villarosa, who will be creating a huge temporary mural in the village park.
He said: “I am so honoured that they have invited me to be a part of their event because I wanted to continue the knowledge of bringing art to your local community and nature.
“People should experience the beauty of art not just in galleries but outdoors as well so people of every ages can relate, interact and enjoy.”
The event takes place from 11am on Sunday, July 31, and will close at 4pm on August 7. According to organisers, residents, schools and nurseries have come out in force to make the return a success and have spent many creative weeks preparing for the event.
All funds raised during the festival are donated to groups, organisations and projects in the village.
Once again there will be a pop-up tea room open every day at Heather St John’s Football Club, where there will be lots of free parking.
There will also be refreshments on sale at the village hall, which will be open from Sunday to Friday. Toilets will be available at both the village hall and the football club.
For those of you who would like to take your own picnic, there is a recreation ground at the village hall, a park surrounding the play area off Belcher Close and a recreation ground at the bottom of Mill Lane. Sence Valley Forest Park is also nearby.
Scarecrow Guides will be available for £2.50 to help visitors find all of the scarecrows and vote for their favourite.
You can also take part in the Scarecrow Treasure Hunt with the chance to win prizes.
The main selling points are Heather St John’s Football Club and the village hall but guides will also be available from the Village Shop, Cattows Farm, Lynda’s Garage Sale
(on Manor Road), The Queens Head and The Crown.
The suggested circuit is just under 4.5 miles and takes about two hours to walk without a break.
According to organisers, most families spend four to five hours at the event, including refreshment breaks.
Visitors are welcome to take their dogs, but they should be kept under control, preferably on leads, and owners must dispose of dog mess responsibly. Dogs will not be permitted (unless Guide Dogs) inside Heather St John’s Football Club.
Marina Brooks, a member of the festival organising team, said: “Many people in the village really missed the scarecrow festival over the last two years, and are looking forward enthusiastically to this year’s event.”
FUN CREATIONS EXPECTED FOR