The streets and gardens of Bildeston were filled with figures of fun after being taken over by scarecrows for the weekend.

Stowmarket Mercury: Norman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNNorman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

The village set to work in aid of the Suffolk Community Foundation after many of its community activities for the summer were cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Stowmarket Mercury: Norman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNNorman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Organiser Debbie Bailey said: “It’s been brilliant, the atmosphere has been great and we’ve had some fantastic scarecrows.

Stowmarket Mercury: Norman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNNorman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

“Everyone has rallied round to donate some great prizes, the community spirit has really shone through. There’s also been quite a competitive spirit, but in a good way.”

Stowmarket Mercury: Norman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNNorman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

There were a total of 74 scarecrows on display, with the event raising £1,284 for the Foundation. BBC Suffolk presenter Mark Murphy acted as judge to choose the best entries.

Stowmarket Mercury: Norman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNNorman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Debbie said: “I thought if we could get 40 scarecrows we would be doing well, and we’ve nearly doubled it. Everyone has really got behind it.”

Stowmarket Mercury: Norman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNNorman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Stowmarket Mercury: Norman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNNorman Ruffell with his scarecrow Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)