Army of scarecrows takes over Wigan community!

Householders have produced a number of imaginative creations that now line Hawkley Hall and are putting smiles on the faces of passers-by.

Captain Tom Moore, the 99-year-old Army veteran who has raised more than £27m for the NHS joins a number of other scarecrows in the line up.

Capt Tom completed 100 laps of the 25-metre (82ft) loop in his garden in Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire, well before the deadline of his 100th birthday on April 30 and raised millions for NHS Charities Together.

And residents in Hawkley Hall are taking to doing their bit by putting together scarecrows for their own garden or front window to give people enjoying their daily exercise during the lockdown a change of scenery and a smile on their faces.

Resident Fran Halliwell, has designed a Capt Tom scarecrow, with the words “Heroes don’t fly, they walk. Thank you Captain Tom”.

She said: “Some Hawkley Hall residents are putting together scarecrows for their garden to give the families out walking or riding a change a scenery.

“I’m one of the first to put my scarecrow up.

“There are only three up on the estate so far but loads saying they are taking part and are on with it.”

It is all part of the Hawkley Hall Scarecrow Trail competition, where residents can get involved and vote for their favourite scarecrow.

The aim is to create a scarecrow for children to find on their daily walk, be as creative as you like, have any theme and to display in your front garden or in the window.

In a poster, Hawkley Hall Neighbourhood info, said: “It’s incredibly important that we keep active even now for our own wellbeing.

“You might be having to walk a lot of the samem routes .

“Let’s be creative and keep things interesting by spotting rainbows, looking for teddy bears or searching for scarecrows.

The poster went on to remind people of the importance of observing the lockdown rules on exercising and on social distancing measures.

This included ensuring that you walk with walk with people in your immediate household, be mindful not to walk in a large family group and take up the pavement, and be at least two metres room for others to pass you confidently and safely.

It said: “Walking with people in your immediate household is fine .

“Be mindful not to walk in a large family group and take up the pavement.

“You need to leave at least two metres room for others to pass you confidently and safely.

To vote for your favourite scarecrow, visit Hawkley Hall Neighbour hood info on Facebook.

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