If you head to Lower Heyford this weekend, you might be forgiven for thinking you have entered an alternate reality – one where scarecrows and children’s book characters have taken over.
But there is no need to be alarmed. Instead, the village is hosting its first-ever Scarecrow Trail, raising money for cancer support centre The Hummingbird Centre.
Organiser Kerrie Cronin threw down the gauntlet to friends and neighbours in the Oxfordshire village, giving them the theme of children’s book characters and encouraging them to bring their creations to life – scarecrow-style.
Among the scarecrows proudly standing in gardens across the village are characters from books by much-loved authors including Julia Donaldson and Roald Dahl.
Kerrie said she had seen scarecrow trails in other villages and had always wanted to be involved in one, so she decided to organise her own.She said: “Together with my family, we have taken part in Wild in Art trails, where sculptures are painted and dotted along a trail. We have always really enjoyed them, so I decided to organise this wonderful activity for families and children, while also raising money for a charity that is close to my heart, The Hummingbird Centre.
“I was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2024, when I was 41, and underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The NHS made me better physically, but it was The Hummingbird Centre that helped me rebuild my strength mentally by providing therapy, reiki and crafting over the past year. It is a magical place and a beacon to many.
“The Hummingbird is a small but crucial charity, relied upon by and helpful to so many, and it was my honour to be able to do something to fundraise in their name.
“I hope those who take part will enjoy the Scarecrow Trail and, most of all, donate generously.”
People can simply turn up over the weekend of September 5 and 6, from 10am to 4pm. Trail maps will be available at Kizzies Bistro, and about 20 properties are taking part across the village.
There will also be cake sales along the way and prizes to be won.
Hummingbird Founder and CEO Mechelle Harris said: “What an amazing idea to bring the community together, creating fun and laughter and, of course, some amazing scarecrows along the way. “Look out for The Hummingbird’s own scarecrow, which has been created by our guests and volunteers.”
To donate view Kerrie’s Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/kerrie-cronin-scarecrowlh?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL
Article written by Sam Mcgregor sjmcgregor2017@gmail.com