A VILLAGE scarecrow festival has been hailed as a massive success.

More than 40 creations were on display around Farnhill and Kildwick at the weekend.

And the festival culminated with a family fun day.

"This was the third annual festival and the best yet," said David Townend, landlord at the White Lion, which hosted Sunday's fun day.

"It was phenomenal.

"We expected the event to be busy but the turnout was incredible. There must have been hundreds of people.

"The event has grown over the years and has become a really popular weekend which brings the whole community together.

"Kettlewell of course is famous for its scarecrow festival but it has got a bit of competition now!

"Roll on next year!"

The festival raised over £800 for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Attractions at the fun day – which was sponsored by the White Lion, Cirteq and Platinum Stairlifts – included the popular Lion Learners, who took along reptiles such as snakes and lizards for young visitors to handle.

There was also face painting, a bouncy castle and barbecue.

Mr Townend thanks the many local businesses which sponsored the weekend – their names will appear on the White Lion Facebook page and in the pub – and all those people who took part.

"The work that went into creating some of scarecrows was absolutely amazing," he said.

"People put so much imagination into it.

"A big thank-you goes to everyone, including all the families who came along to the fun day.

"The numbers who took part this year were overwhelming.

"We were helped by the weather, which was terrific."

The festival was organised by Julie Kelly and White Lion landlady Suzanne Townend.

The prize for the best scarecrow, as voted for by the public, was awarded to Mrs Rollo.

And the judges' choice accolade went to The Lion.

A prize for the most scarecrows identified went to Malcolm Green and Stella Osbourne.