PREPARATIONS are well underway to turn the village of Lea near Malmesbury into a piggy paradise.

Lea and Gardson Primary School PTA are holding their annual pig chase tomorrow and have been building their pig-like scarecrows that will be scattered around the village.

Much like a scarecrow trail, the pig chase, with this year’s theme around the world, families will have to guess what country each pig represents to be in with the chance of winning a prize.

Kellie Chandler Chairman of Lea and Gardson PTA, said: “It is a trail that goes through the village of Lea. You can start at the school and go up to the playing fields, or the other way round.

“We have 28 pigs this year, and the theme this year is around the world because it is slightly related to the world cup being on the same weekend.

“People have come up with their country and they are designing the pigs so people have to guess what country it is.

“It is going to be exciting for the children as we are trying to make it not too complicated.

“It went down very well last year, we had about 500 people come from all over the place.”

This year, the PTA, to boost their fundraising efforts have decided to hold their summer fair, which is normally held in July, on the same day.

They have a target of £13,000 to raise so the school can benefit from three much needed new smart whiteboards.

As well as the trail there will be inflatable slides, a bouncy castle, a bungee run, games and activities and a barbecue.

Thanks to the generosity of local businesses in and around Malmesbury, each Scarecrow has been sponsored which is helping them reach their fundraising target.

Mrs Chandler added: “Because we have a really big target we have been trying to get sponsorship.

“We have been going to local businesses and 28 of our pigs will be sponsored.

“It has been quite amazing how many have sponsored us. There are also four or five companies helping out with the stalls, Pimms, barbecue and printing of the maps.

“We feel hugely blessed.”

The Lea and Garsdon Pig Chase and fair is taking place tomorrow 11.30am-4.30pm.