SCARECROWS took over a chunk of the Winchester district as two communities hosted competitions.

Otterbourne C of E primary launched its village-wide festival which is set to run until the end of the month.

It is hoped it will raise £5,000 to replace the school's outdated whiteboards.

Around 40 scarecrows have been put up in various streets.

Rhys Davies told the Chronicle: "The last few days has seen dozens of families criss-crossing the village to tick off all of the entries.

"You can vote for your favourite scarecrow on the Friends of Otterbourne School (FOS) Facebook page."

The first ever scarecrow competition in Oliver's Battery, which has now ended was a "real community event".

Dozens of residents got involved and the village streets were lined with unique creations – all themed in their own way.

Demelsa Healey has thanked the community for their efforts.

She said: "On behalf of the community I would like to thank the Oliver's Battery Events Group for organising the inaugural scarecrow competition in September.

"It was a real community event, as proved by the quantity of entries, which kept appearing in neighbours' gardens.

"Not only did it give individuals and family groups a purpose to their walks, but it took them into roads hitherto unexplored.

"Residents enjoyed watching the stories evolve and we were delighted to hear that Pierre, of Veg R Us, not only won the overall best Scarecrow award but also won his gal and is pictured here with Watchful Wanda – check the bling.

"A true example of local entente cordial - good news all round."