Now in its third year, Hartford’s annual scarecrow competition seems to be getting bigger and better, with some wonderful creations on show.

Organisers decided that with the current coronavirus pandemic, it would be a good idea to introduce a superhero theme.

And villagers have risen to the challenge and embraced the concept, with a lot of time and effort being put into making their scarecrows.

NHS hero by Caroline Askew

“It all started as an idea posted in the Hartford Life Facebook group as something to do in the summer to brighter the village up,” said organiser Paula Manley.

“We normally link it to Hartford Parish Council’s Picnic in the Park event, where we have a stall showing pictures of the scarecrows and people can pick the winner.

“Obviously the picnic is not happening this year due to coronavirus, so we’re doing it all online instead and will be giving rosettes for the winners.

“This is the first year we’ve had a theme and people can create scarecrows based on either superheroes, their local heroes or NHS heroes.”

Paula says that the 20 entries so far have been a good mix and that more are expected in the coming days and weeks.

Research Scientist, Dr Coronalina Dixneuf by Susan Marshall McBain

“It’s good to have something positive to focus on with the kids when people are stuck at home,” she added.

“A lot of hard work and effort has gone into the brilliant entries we’ve received so far.

“People say they’ve been cheered up making them and it’s cheered people up who have seen them around the village as well.”

A trail is being organised where people can see all the entries around the village, and if you are a Hartford resident and would like to enter, you have until June 19 to do so.

For more information, head to the Hartford Life Facebook group.