Horatio Nelson, JRR Tolkien and Jack the Ripper were among 40 scarecrows on a historical British figures theme whose identities visitors had to guess during the sixth annual Keevil Scarecrow trail.

Scarecrows for this year’s trail – organised by Friends of Keevil School over last Saturday and Sunday – were made by local artists Joanna May and Eleanor O’Brien, as well as several families in the village.

The trail was opened by BBC Flog It! presenter Paul Martin and there was a barbecue, bar, tea and cakes, sweets, ice cream, face-painting, tombola, games and a raffle.

All the money raised will be used by Keevil Church of England Primary School to help buy IT equipment, including laptops and tablets.

The winning scarecrow, as voted for by those who took part, was Ron Lester’s version of Hobbit author, JRR Tolkien.

Charlotte Martin, Paul’s wife and an organiser, along with Jill Reynolds, said: “The weather was definitely on our side and we had a big turnout. We took over £8,000, which is amazing.

“I think it made all the difference having such great weather and getting Paul, Joanna May and Eleanor O’Brien to come along.

“The scarecrows were incredible and, from our feedback, it is clear everyone had an amazing time.”

A £100 prize – donated by Stephen Graver Kitchens – was awarded for the first correct solution drawn. There was a separate prize for the children’s trail.

Max Burr, the Keevil Primary School headteacher, said: “I think it was the biggest turnout we have ever had and to raise over £8,000, before taking costs into account is a fantastic effort.

“Massive thanks should go to the parents who arranged this, as they deserve the real accolades, and to the villagers who came along and supported it.

“The scarecrows were pitched just right, so everyone could have a go, and there were some brilliant designs.”

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