DOZENS of scarecrows have appeared across three villages between Flintshire and Wrexham this summer.

The straw-filled figures have been popping up outside homes and businesses in the villages of Hope, Caergwrle and Abermorddu throughout the month of August.

But don’t worry, people aren’t using them to suddenly protect their front garden crops from an imminent bird attack.

Rather, the imaginatively costumed figures are being erected as part of a new, annual village scarecrow competition which is taking place across the three villages.

Councillor David Healey, of Flintshire Council, said: "I congratulate those at Hope Community Council who thought of this incredible initiative which has been so well received.

"It's most heartening to see this competition breathing new life into the villages. People have been so creative, and I look forward to seeing the winning entries announced."

Judges roamed the streets of Hope, Caergwrle and Abermoddu over the second week of August to rate the scarecrows that have officially entered the competition.

The results of the 2019 Village Scarecrow Competition will be announced at the ‘St Cynfarch’s Craft and Produce Show’ on Saturday, September 7.

The winners will be revealed at the show which is set to take place between 2pm and 4pm at Hope Church Hall.

There is a first prize of £50 in gardening vouchers available, with the runner-up receiving a £25 voucher and third place claiming a £10 voucher.