SCARY scarecrows are drawing crowds to a small County Durham village.

The straw figures from fiction, films, and TV are lining the streets of Fir Tree. Jack Skellington, The Stig, Humpty Dumpty, and even the Queen are among the creations on show.

Hosted by the Fir Tree and Harperley Residents’ Association, the competition is in its second year – and this it's more competitive than ever.

Durham County Councillor Anne Reed said: “The scarecrows are amazing, made by local creative people. My grandchildren and I were all chuckling at the them.”

The masterpieces are created from everyday items including kitchen utensils, farming equipment, and pumpkins.

County Councillor Patricia Joplin will be judging the 17 scarecrows today (October 31). The best will win a carvery meal for two at the Fir Tree Hotel.

Sean Kell a resident of Fir Tree said: “We lost one of our ponies in July so this scarecrow is our tribute to her, our ‘Gidia Pony’ Scarecrow.”