MISCHIEVOUS scarecrows at Monkton Park Primary School were on display over the weekend as groups enjoyed the annual scarecrow trail.

This year the trail, in Chippenham, was involved in a double celebration, as the school commemorated its 50th anniversary and the trail, run by Friends of Monkton Park Primary school, was ten years old.

Scarecrows were made by families from the school, with Rainbow and Brownie groups also joining in the fun.

The theme ‘Famous Ms’ was a popular choice as 50 scarecrows were crafted and proudly put on display throughout the estate. From Maleficent to Mr Men and Moana to Monet, the creative entrants covered all aspects of popular culture and famous faces.

Organiser Janine Maclean, who lives on Monkton Park estate and is a member of the Friends of Monkton Park Primary sub committee, said: “We are chuffed with this year’s trail, and have raised £2,300.

“Last year we raised about £1,200 which shows how successful it has been this year.

“In previous years we have had to work to get enough people making scarecrows but this year we reached our limit of 50 entrants very quickly. Around 1,000 people took part and we sold a record number of answer sheets.”

The Friends of Monkton Park School thanked local companies who sponsored a scarecrow and The Blackberries Camping Park for providing the top prize of a free glamping experience.

Cash is being raised to purchase an outdoor classroom for the school and allow children year-round access to outdoor learning.

Ms Maclean added: “It will be fantastic to have a permanent structure where classes can go outside regularly and learn about the outdoor. We already have a fire pit and pond. It is a really big purchase and we have been working hard all year to fundraise towards it.”

Fundraising will continue throughout the year.