Scarecrows first came to Kettlewell in 1994 when a fund raising event was organised for the local school which serves much of Upper Wharfedale with its villages, isolated hamlets and remote farms. The enthusiastic response of parents and residents led to over 100 scarecrows appearing in gardens, open spaces, hidden corners and even on rooftops. The event was successfully repeated and, growing year by year, now attracts thousands of visitors over a nine day period in August.

Since 1998, the Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival has been organised on behalf of St Mary's Parish Church, Kettlewell Village Hall and the original beneficiary - the school. A small committee leads the way, but the whole community responds magnificently; making and renovating scarecrows, preparing and serving delicious home made produce to feed the many visitors and organising parking and traffic.

Kettlewell is a delightful village, both attractive and interesting, and ideally situated in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Visitors are encouraged to explore by walking the "Scarecrow Trail", identifying selected scarecrows and solving associated clues which, each year, are based on a different theme. Many other scarecrows can be found, often in some of the more unusual and unexpected nooks and crannies of this idyllic location.

Despite all the hard work involved, the villagers are refreshed and inspired by the sight of so many smiling faces during the week.

May your face be one ofthem this year and in the future.