In pictures: Pattingham Scarecrow Festival returns with more than 120 brilliant creations including Ozzy Osbourne
A Shropshire village has been buzzing with activity as more than 120 scarecrows - including one of Ozzy Osbourne - lined the streets for the return of a much-loved festival.
The three-day Pattingham Scarecrow Festival, which has previously raised thousands of pounds for local causes, has made a triumphant return over this weekend.
Now in its seventh edition, the popular biennial event running between Friday and Sunday, offered fun for all ages in the village on the Shropshire/South Staffordshire border.
A total of 123 scarecrows have taken over the village, displayed across three routes.
Speaking to the Shropshire Star after a successful opening day of the festival, organiser Mike Coope said: "It’s been quite active so far. Around the village is had been quite busy which is excellent, so a good start.
"We have 123 scarecrows in the festival, they are all presented in the trail guide that is on sale.We have our three loops for people to follow and visitors can buy a map that tells people where they are and who has made them."
Firmly established as one of the region’s most popular events, the quirky festival invites visitors to follow a trail of handmade scarecrows displayed throughout the village, just seven miles from Wolverhampton.
A standout entry this year was a scarecrow version of Donald Trump, spotted sitting on a low wall along the High Street. Local farmer Roger Evans also impressed with a striking castle made entirely of hay bales.
Organiser Mike has photographed each of the scarecrows and hopes to produce a 2026 calendar showcasing some of the best designs.
Admiring a scarecrow outside a local hairdresser's, Mike added: "The work they have done to the head is remarkable, it is completely made of wheat sheaves which is incredible.
"They vary dramatically, but this one is great.There is one at the Crown Inn which is Donald Trump.He has been photographing them all and then they hope they can produce a calendar for next year out of them."
Alongside the scarecrow trails, there was evening entertainment at the festival for visitors. On Friday, a barn dance and hog roast was held at Pattingham Village Hall, and on Saturday night a brass band concert was held at St Chad’s Church.
Moreover, the festival has a strong tradition of giving back to the community. In 2023, the sixth edition raised around £13,500, which was used to fund new village hall curtains, complete a church restoration project known as the West End Door at St Chad’s, and support the local first school.
"We will be supporting the local school, the village school, St Chad’s Church and possibly another couple of events in the village," Mike added.
"It is all fed back into the village. It’s something we have always done since we started 14 years ago in 2011.
"We have always ploughed it back into the three main elements, but as it has developed, things have added. It’s all for Pattingham!"
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