THE replacement for Colden Common's biggest annual event was the cream of the crop.

Villagers were forced to cancel 'Common Have a Go' due to the health crisis.

But that did not stop them from holding a scarecrow competition instead.

With very little notice and no funding, word spread around and 56 scarecrows appeared in front gardens and areas of waste land.

Brian O'Neill told the Chronicle: "A local family walked around the village and took photos of the scarecrows and recorded the address.

"On Sunday evening these photos were sent to a panel of five judges, to decide on final placing’s. Main prizes were kindly donated by The Phoenix Inn at Tywford, and Brambridge Garden Centre.

"Some bottles of wine and chocolates by well-wishers, for runner up prizes."

The first prize was presented to Sophie, Amelie, Laylah and Phoebe with their traditional Ann Sally-type scarecrow.

The Harris family of Sophie, Natalie and Charlotte lined up a set of life-like scarecrows along Main Road to take second place.

A country version of Boris Johnson featured in joint third place, made by Louise Plowright, with Lisa Maher’s Sunflower scarecrow.