Scarecrows bring smiles to villagers

Dr Andrew Vance with 'Friday Knight'

Saddleworth’s most isolated village quietly brightened the community with a colourful display of handmade scarecrows.

The pandemic compelled Denshaw to cancel its annual flower and produce show, which has been a village highlight since the 1860s.

But three years ago, an enthusiastic team from the Junction Inn launched a creative scarecrow competition which gave locals a chance to show off their talents.

Elizabeth Ferber, one of the show committee, explained: “The decision as to whether or not to run this year's show was somewhat taken away from the commitee, but ensuring the health of Denshaw and the surrounding villages is paramount.

“The last three years has also seen the addition of the scarecrow competition, gratefully sponsored by Christina and Barrie and their team from the Junction Inn. 

“Scarecrows in many shapes and sizes would appear throughout the village in the two weeks prior to the show, with judging carried out on the day and also at the Junction. 

‘The challenges faced this year meant that the Scarecrow competition in its usual form was also not able to be held.

“However, the community spirit is still well alive and some ‘crows have sprung up across the village. 

“A very fitting tribute to NHS workers appeared at the bus stop above the Barracks early on in the pandemic and remains a stalwart to the scarecrow family, with a number of others joining them across the village.

“And in recent days another dedicated villager has also taken up the age old tradition of well dressing...a wonderful testament to village life.”

Elizabeth added: “Denshaw, along with everyone else, will be crossing all its green fingers that we will be able to hold our competition next year for everyone to enter and come and enjoy the day and continue to keep the community spirit alive.”

Dr Andrew Vance, the show committee chairman, installed two roadside scarecrow attractions with “Friday Knight” and an amusing upside down scarecrow of his partner posing the question - “Where is Michael?”

He declared: “The scarecrows have certainly brought a smile to passers-by.”

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