AN array of characters – from Boy George to ET – could be spotted around Cullingworth at the weekend.

The village staged its 16th annual scarecrow festival, this year on a 1980s theme.

About 60 creations were on display in private gardens, shops and churches.

Proceeds from the event are split between the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands.

A minibus was in operation, taking people around the exhibits.

And refreshments were served-up from various venues throughout the weekend.

Organisers said the festival was a success, despite rain on Sunday.

“I think the wet weather did deter some people from coming along but we were still busy and it was a good weekend,” said Mrs Rosemary Spencer, for the organising committee.

“The minibus tour proved very popular. In terms of visitor numbers, we were probably on a par with last year, and the feedback was extremely positive.

“We had a few new entrants this time – and some scarecrows that we weren’t expecting suddenly appeared, which was great!

“The scarecrows seem to get better and better each year. A lot of creativity and work goes into them.”

Programmes were sold in local shops and people were encouraged to vote for their favourite creation. Voting continues until Friday.

“We would like to say a big thank-you to everybody who supported this year’s event,” added Mrs Spencer.

“Thanks go to those who spent time making the scarecrows, to all those who helped the festival in any way and to the public – both residents from the village and people from further afield – who turned out to give their support.

“It’s that support which raises the funds for our two worthy causes.

“It is too early to say how much has been raised, but we certainly hope it will match last year’s.

“Both the causes we support are close to people’s hearts and since the festival began around £5,000 has been raised for each.

“The event has become a village tradition and planning for next year’s will start in January!”

The festival is to receive an award from the Yorkshire Air Ambulance for the support it has provided.