The event was first created to bring smiles to the community during lockdown and is back again this year, as scarecrow creations are appearing around the village.

The trail is organised by the Haltwhistle Academy PTA who hope it will be as successful as last year.

Sarah Shah, Plenmellar, one of the organisers and parent of two Haltwhistle Academy students said: "Our scarecrow trail was created last year to lift the spirits of our community during a pretty uncertain and worrying time.

"Residents pulled together fantastically to create scarecrows of all shapes and sizes bringing smiles to everyone who saw them."

"The winner last year was Alan and his team at the Black Bull worked really hard to create 'Pennywise' (the winning scarecrow) and were so pleased to be announced winner by postal vote."

"Their trophy sits pride of place behind the bar and they are keen to try and keep the title of 'best dressed scarecrow' this year."

Anyone interested in the trail can buy trail maps from Friday 22nd October from ISave Toy Store and Haltwhistle library. They are £2 per map.

Sarah adds: "The £2 per map goes to the school towards new playground equipment for the upper years."

"Early years were awarded funding/grants leaving the bigger playground quite bare."

"The trail map will ask which one was their favourite and then the aim is that they fill it in then send a picture to our page.

"The winner gets the 'Haltwhistle Best Dressed Scarecrow Trophy' for the year."

"We will announce on the winner on November 5."

"We look forward to seeing everyone's efforts!"

Haltwhistle Acadmey adds: ""As part of the refurbishment, Wise Academies invested in play equipment for the Early Years which is part of their curriculum provision. 

"The school and PTA have grand plans for the main playground and have already purchased bowling alleys for the older children."

"The fundraising will support the investment in a large fixed play structure for the older children which we hope will be installed later this year."