SCARECROWS are cropping up all around a small village on the Hampshire border as it prepares for its annual fete.

West Dean’s men and women of straw were judged this week by fete organisers and the winners will be announced at Saturday’s event.

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Fete chairman Derek Howland, said: “There are now 40 scarecrows in place – a truly brilliant effort for a village of only about 120 houses.”

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Former racing driver turned TV presenter, ‘Tiff’ Needell, will open the fete which will begin with a procession led by the Sarum Morrismen and children dressed in scarecrow fancy dress.

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Displays lined up for the event, which runs from 1pm, include a Harris hawk and gundog working in unison and a demonstration of circus skills including fire-eating, juggling and stilt-walking.

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Music will continue in the evening, from 7.30pm to 11pm, with nine-piece Latin band Atlantico plus support.

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Tickets for the evening event, where there will be a bar and food, are £5.