Stanney Oaks estate near Cheshire Oaks hosts first scarecrow festival

Residents on the Stanney Oaks estate near Cheshire Oaks have been getting busy with more than 50 colourful and amusing creations.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is among the characters putting smiles on faces, while one front garden was transformed into 'LockdownFest' complete with boozing party-goers.

Colourful creations, above and below, from the inaugural Friends of Stanney Oaks Scarecrow Festival. Images courtesy of Kathryn Gallagher

Other neighbours paid tribute to the NHS and key workers in the Friends of Stanney Oaks' inaugural scarecrow festival, which began on Saturday and lasts until July 4.

It has been organised by resident Yvette Byrne, with help from neighbour Kathryn Gallagher, with funds raised by the event's scavanger word hunt going towards the upkeep of the estate's green areas, flower beds and ponds.

"This was a golden opportunity to do something special for people living on the estate and to raise some money along the way," said Mrs Gallagher.

"It's great to see so many families walking around with smiles on their faces.

"The situation with coronavirus has meant many people have been locked in their homes. This is a great opportunity to lift spirits."

She added: "We never thought we'd have so many entries in our first year doing this. The response from residents has been great. It shows what a fantastic community we have.

"There's a lot of fantastic scarecrows. Everyone has done a great job.

"The idea is to now make this an annual tradition. We are going to make it even bigger and better next year."

Prizes are to be awarded for 'best in show' scarecrow and runner-up, donated by resident Allen Hanmer.