INSPIRATION, creativity and quite a few smiles were the theme of a fund-raising mission by the WI at Romanby, near Northallerton.

They organised a weekend scarecrow festival to raise cash towards the restoration of their hall in the village - and were left overwhelmed by the level of support from the local community.

“We hoped to get 20 scarecrows and set ourselves a target of raising £1,000 with this one event. In fact we had 60 entries, and raised more than £2,000,” said event organiser Samantha Jennings.

“The sense of community spirit was wonderful. People were out exploring the area and talking to neighbours.

“Families with children and older residents all mixing together. It was really wonderful.”

Winners were the Wilson family with their Humpty Dumpty creation. Second was Scarecrows Wedding made by Romanby Pre-School and Cabin Crew. Third was Sister Act, a tribute to the Northallerton Musical Theatre Company’s latest show.