By Suzi Dixon

suzi.dixon@newsquest.co.uk

@suzidixon77

'FAMOUS ANIMALS' was the theme for the colourful and creative scarecrow trail, held at Monkton Park at the weekend.

Around 700 people from across Chippenham hunted out 47 scarecrows across the park and enjoyed tea, cakes and BBQ and bar, to raise £1,200 for Monkton Park Primary School. Peppa Pig, Bambi and other much-loved characters were hidden around Monkton Park Primary School Grounds. Only two pupils, Georgina Wilkinson and Hannah Griffin, correctly guessed all 47 scarecrows, sharing first prize.

The winner of the vote for best scarecrow was Ham, number eight, which was made by Duncan Maclean with his children Zach (age 7, year 3) and Charlotte (age 5, year 1). Headteacher John Barlow was also delighted to meet and have his photo taken with his doppelganger, a scarecrow made by the Griffin family.

Jo Lennon, chair of Friends of Monkton Park School, said: "It was a fantastic community event, there were some fantastic Famous Animals; and all the children really got involved."

The nearby Riverside Preschool also ran a refreshment stall that raised more than £240 over the weekend, with an abundance of sweet treats, including brownies, fresh strawberries, sweet cones and homemade cakes. They took over a garage at The Tinings, to provide players with a sugar boost en route. It is the first time the schools have teamed up on a scarecrow trail. Lucinda Weston, manager of Riverside Preschool, said: "The stall went down well with everyone who attended; we plan to be back next year!"