Spectacle so much to

WHERE else could you find a the Angel of the North in miniature, a Very Hungry Caterpillar and a lifesize replica of a horse?

Take a look at some of the fantastic scarecrow creations that were on public display at Earsdon’s scarecrow festival at the weekend.

The North Tyneside village attracted hundreds of visitors to the fourth annual festival.

Katie Lee, who helped to organise the event said: “It’s great to see the community coming together to support the village. Some of the quieter residents have even been getting involved this year, so there’s a real sense of community spirit.”

The festival was originally set up to raise funds to help maintain the village, following the closure of the community group Friends of Earsdon. The group that had previously tended to the village had to close due to the old age of their members.

However, 47-year-old Katie believes the event brings way more to the community.

The mother of twin girls added: “My favourite part of the festival is seeing the happy faces on people of all ages as they walk through the village.

“One of the older residents, who can’t get out of the house, told me she looks forward to hearing all the excited voices of children outside as it brings back happy memories of playing in the school playground.”

This year there were around 30 scarecrows displayed throughout the village, many from first-time contributors.

Sophie Johnson took part to help her feel part of her new community.

The deputy headteacher said: “Since moving here a few months ago, my husband has been getting to know people while he’s been out gardening. That is how we found out about the event, so I made a gardener scarecrow.”