The Darling Buds of May Ma and Pa Frampton, at Sandford. DA6220P05IF you have a wander around the Bisterne countryside, you will find scarecrows peeking out of the most unusual of places.

More than 30 elaborate scarecrows are peering from hedgerows, fields and chimney pots, as part of the annual scarecrow competition.

With creations ranging from Cruella and her Dalmatians to Mary Poppins, and from can-can dancers to the story of the Bisterne Dragon, the community has joined forces to create a visual treat for passersby.

The winners of the rural contest will be announced at Bisterne fun day on Sunday.

The competition is now in its second year and, following the phenomenal success of last year's event, three categories have been added, including an adult class, a children's class and a group class.

Councillor Norman Light has organised the Bisterne Scarecrow festival and fun day to raise funds for disabled facilities at the village hall.

He said: "The whole community has joined in and the scarecrows are fantastic.

"It is amazing how all is quiet on the scarecrow front and then, a week before the fun day, they start to pop up in the most extraordinary places.

"It is a wonderful village event, which is becoming increasingly competitive, but the results are brilliant."

The free fun day starts at 3pm and includes a jazz band, a hog roast, games and stalls.