BUSINESSES across town have been putting their creative sides to the test as the annual scarecrow festival returns for 2017.

The much-loved event, organised by the Rotary Club of Wilmslow Dean in partnership with the Wilmslow Show and the Wilmslow Business Group, has seen a host of firms decorate their own scarecrow while donating to the Rotary Club’s supported charities.

Debbie Townsend played a key role in creating the scarecrow for Jordan Fishwick estate agents, in Alderley Road.

She told the Guardian: “It’s a nice thing for the town as it’s something that all the businesses can get involved with, and it goes to charity.

“All the scarecrows are great but ours is one of the best as it’s a proper scarecrow – although it does have a plant pot for a head.

“We wanted to make it fit with the Wilmslow in Bloom theme, which this year is ‘walk on the wild side’.

“It wasn’t too difficult to make as I do a lot of gardening myself, so I really enjoyed it.”

For this year’s festival the Rotary Club suggested a movie theme, and Mackenzie Marketing, in Alderley Road, stepped up to the plate with their creation – Mackenzie Monroe.

Zachary Henshaw, from Mackenzie Marketing, told the Guardian: “We were trying to think of stars that we could use with our initials, MM.

“I think the festival is good as it shows businesses coming together and giving something back.

“The scarecrows will then go on display at the Wilmslow Show, and it’s a great way to bring people together.”

The scarecrow festival runs in many of the town’s businesses, schools and community groups until Saturday, July 8.

The creations will then go on display at the Wilmslow Show, in Carnival Fields, a day later.

Families are also invited to enjoy the scarecrow parade from 11am on Saturday, July 1, and again at 2pm, which features the award-winning Co-operative Brass Band.

Children who register on the day will be asked to name any location where one of the handheld scarecrows has been hiding throughout the festival, and the winners will be given the chance to join in the parade.

For more information visit wilmslowdeanrotary.org.uk