THE streets of Tutshill rang to the sounds of people calling out the names of children’s cartoon characters over the Easter school holidays, as the ninth annual scarecrow trail took place again from April 8 to 22.

Over 1,500 people took part in the event, with 32 scarecrows placed around the village and a map showing the route on sale, raising more than £1,200 for event organiser, St Luke’s Church.

Jane Penny, children and families minister for St Luke’s, said: “Each year more and more people take part in this fun community event, whether making a scarecrow, hosting someone else’s creation or taking part in the competition and this year beat previous records with over 460 quiz sheets bought.  

“The event is in its ninth year over the Easter period and, by popular request, it has now become an established Tutshill tradition for everyone to enjoy. People from all over Britain and, this year, from New Zealand came to see the scarecrows.”  

One visitor commented on the trail’s Facebook page: “Had my first visit here today to do the trail…what a stunning little village. Thank you residents for providing us with a lovely day. We loved your efforts (although a few were tricky), enjoyed lunch at Toast and played in the park.”

To round off the excitement of the search there was a fun Results Show Live event at Tutshill Primary school on Sunday, April 23. Answers to the quiz were given, the prize winners were announced and scarecrow related crafts and activities were on offer.

The winner of favourite scarecrow was the Pink Panther, designed by Hannah and Dave  Ransom, with 63 votes. In second place were Carl and Russell from Up, Bambi and Thumper came third, with Poppy Troll fourth and Dangermouse in fifth place.

The 2017 winners of the Guess the Scarecrow competition for 2017 were the Tyldesley family and the Taylor family. Prizes were donated by Whirlikidz, Chepstow Bookshop and  Perrygrove Railway.  

“We were delighted with the community response and would like to thank everyone for the part they played in making it such a success; from the makers, those who hosted scarecrows, route designers and all those who helped with the Sunday afternoon event,” Jane added.