‘Lost’ scarecrow Rupert on European rally jaunt
AS C A R E C R OW believed to be ‘kidnapped’ by pranksters has been found hundreds of miles away in Holland.
Susan Hadfield and her partner David Nixon spent weeks creating a scarecrow Rupert the Bear.
The eye catching-replica was one of 70 entries in Rainow Church fete’s annual competition.
But the family were left devastated after it was taken from outside their home on Buxton New Road.
Friends launched a social media campaign for Rupert’s safe return.
He was eventually traced to Aberdeen, where he had been found by a group of Dutch motorists taking part in a rally of vintage Volvos across Europe called the Carbage Run.
Rupert is now in Holland and will be sent home by courier.
Susan, 50, said: “A lot of time and effort went into making Rupert and my granddaughter Millie loves it. So when he was first taken I was furious.
“After the story appeared on the Macclesfield Express website it got a lot of attention and a campaign to return Rupert was started. It was amazing.
“Eventually the guys from the rally got in touch and said they had found it at one of their campsites. No one was claiming responsibility, but it’s obvious someone picked Rupert up after driving past the house on their way up to Aberdeen.
“Over the following few days he went to Scotland, then back down to Lon- don and over the Channel to Holland. They sent pictures of Rupert having a great time on their rally. He was like their mascot. It all became quite funny.
“The guys have promised to send Rupert back by courier, so we are keeping our fingers crossed that happens on Wednesday.”
Rupert was one of 70 scarecrows entered in the competition under the theme children’s characters.
The Childcatcher from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Thunderbirds, Spongebob Squarepants, the Wizard of Oz and the Hungry Caterpillar all appeared on driveways, gardens and rooftops in the village.
Other entries include Peter Rabbit, Little Red Riding Hood, Postman Pat and a Minion from the film Despicable Me.
Susan said: “We have entered the competition since it started 12 years ago. “We really enjoy it. “We chose Rupert because David has a lot of vintage Rupert annuals.” ●● SCARECROW picture special: see page 27.