SCARY STUFF:  Startforth Community Centre committee members John Rhodes and Judith Rodwell putting the finishing touches to one of the scarecrows
SCARY STUFF: Startforth Community Centre committee members John Rhodes and Judith Rodwell putting the finishing touches to one of the scarecrows

COMMUNITY centre volunteers are hoping their inaugural scarecrow competition will become an annual event, raising vital funds to keep the venue open.

The two-day competition at Startforth Morritt Community Centre will take place on Saturday and Sunday, July 27 and 28, and organisers are keen to get as many community groups and residents to enter their own Worzel Gummage or Aunt Sally.

Judith Rodwell, chairwoman of the centre’s management committee, said: “The aim, as well as raising funds, is to involve as many of the local people as possible, especially those living on the new developments.”

The community centre, housed in the former primary school, hosts a number of different groups including choirs, yoga and a nursery.

She added: “It’s going to be a social kind of event and we hope lots of people will get involved. It’s just a bit of fun. If it’s good weather we will have the scarecrows in the playgrounds and gardens, but if it’s a bit inclement they’ll be inside in the hall.”

There will be prizes for the top scarecrows and refreshments will be on offer during the afternoon. Entry is not limited to residents of Startforth and anyone can enter.

Entry fee for individuals is £4 and £10 for group efforts and all money will go towards the running of the centre.

Anyone interested in entering can contact Mrs Rodwell on 07747 169902.