There were some unusual visitors to Wheathampstead last weekend, with more than 40 scarecrows popping up around the village.

The first-ever scarecrow trail was raised £700 for Friends of St Helen's CE School with prizes were donated by village businesses including Brewhouse, Loafing, Farr Brew, Flowers by Catherine, Nonno's Pizza, Charlie's and West End Barns.

Herts Advertiser: Wheathampstead Scarecrow Trail.Wheathampstead Scarecrow Trail. (Image: Karyn Haddon)

The overall people's winner was Peter Rabbit, with the Halloween scarecrow and rock group Kiss runners up.

Herts Advertiser: Wheathampstead Scarecrow TrailWheathampstead Scarecrow Trail (Image: Karyn Haddon)

The pink flamingo received the head teacher's award for prettiest scarecrow.

Herts Advertiser: Wheathampstead Scarecrow TrailWheathampstead Scarecrow Trail (Image: Karyn Haddon)

The organisers said: "Wow, what an amazing turnout for Wheathampstead's first ever scarecrow trail! The people of the village have shown their full creative flair and are already talking about what they're going to make next year.

Herts Advertiser: Wheathampstead Scarecrow TrailWheathampstead Scarecrow Trail (Image: Karyn Haddon)

"The brilliant array of scarecrows from TV characters and movie stars to good old traditional sack scarecrows gave everyone enjoyment.

Herts Advertiser: Wheathampstead Scarecrow TrailWheathampstead Scarecrow Trail (Image: Karyn Haddon)

"We'd like to thank everyone who made a scarecrow or bought a map and give particular thanks to all our village businesses who donated prizes.

Herts Advertiser: Wheathampstead Scarecrow TrailWheathampstead Scarecrow Trail (Image: Karyn Haddon)

"Their generosity and the spirit of the people of Wheathampstead has really shone through - as did thankfully, the sunshine!"

Herts Advertiser: Wheathampstead Scarecrow TrailWheathampstead Scarecrow Trail (Image: Karyn Haddon)

Herts Advertiser: Wheathampstead Scarecrow TrailWheathampstead Scarecrow Trail (Image: Karyn Haddon)