THE Gatcombe and Chillerton Scarecrow Festival is making a welcome return to the parish.

Residents always put on a fantastic display of scarecrows — known as gallybaggers — for the award-winning festival, which takes place between May 25 and June 1.

The scarecrows can be found throughout the village, in front gardens and decorating local buildings, during the week.

Pop into The Galleybagger Inn for a drink and make sure you catch the morris dancers.

Proceeds will go to local causes, including the upkeep of the village hall and St Olave's Church, Gatcombe.

"The key to the whole thing is the local community putting so much into the scarecrows," said festival organiser Steve Hoyle.

For further information visit www.gallybagger.org.uk

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