Birds were sent fleeing from an Aberdeenshire town yesterday after a band of 50 scarecrows arrived to stand sentinel on its streets.
The straw-stuffed mannequins were pinned to Westhill’s roadsides, gardens and trees yesterday as the community’s annual gala week kicked off.
The Westhill Art Project called on locals to craft the decoys, with the most impressive one to be recognised at the Westhill Gala next Saturday.
Among the creations cooked up by locals was a 9ft totem pole scarecrow named Tattie-Bogle and another smaller invention named Dino Dog.
They were placed in the streets neighbouring Westhill’s Holiday Inn.
Local florist Ann Westwood, one of the trail’s organisers, said: “It went exceptionally well. We started at 10am and had people there right away, so that was really good considering the rain was coming down.
“All the kids had their waterproofs and umbrellas. We had 50 scarecrows in total.
“Dino Dog was a a bit of a favourite – which was a very small dog-like creature with a red mane – and another one called Tattie-Bogle – a 9ft totem pole – which was absolutely brilliant.
“Tattie-Bogle was done by a local chap who is a builder and a bit of an artist. Seemingly that is an old name for scarecrow.
“Olly the Octopus was a favourite too. We don’t just go for plain old scarecrows here.
“Everyone certainly had fun, kids had a great time, they were all smiling away even though they were drenched. Most of them found them all.”
Other activities lined up for gala week include a beastie safari around Arnhall Moss today and Wednesday with council ranger Alison Sutherland. Call 01467 681470 to book.
There will also be a bingo night at Ashdale Hall from 7pm on Wednesday. Tickets on the door.
Visitors to gala day itself can enjoy demonstrations by the 7stanes Mountain Bike display team, inflatable fun, dancing, games, stalls, a beer tent and barbecue. The fun will run from 2pm on Saturday.
On Sunday, the 17th annual Westhill 13 mile bike ride will leave from the hall at 1pm. Registration is from noon. Call 01224 470927 or visit www.westhillbikeride.co.uk