TEACHER Janet Dalton is no dunce when it comes to creating scarecrows.

Her creative efforts also helped to raise hundreds of pounds to keep alive the 135-year-old St John's Chapel Agricultural Show, taking place on Saturday.

Mrs Dalton's scarecrow, based on the Mary Mary Quite Contrary children's rhyme, won the second Scare-a-Crow for the Show competition organised to raise funds for the Weardale Agricultural Society.

Her entry was chosen from more than 60 others by BBC local radio personality Frank Wappat and his wife, Susan.

Mrs Dalton, who lives in the old police house in St John's Chapel, said: "It is little things like this that help to pull rural communities together. It is also very important that we do as much as we can to help the local show."

Among other characters in the contest, which last year raised more than £500 for show funds, were Sooty and Sweep, Humpty Dumpty, the Angel of the North, sheep and two speed-trap policemen.

One of the competition organisers, Sue Tallentire, said: "Last year was the first time we held the event, and we were very pleased with the result.

"But this year, with over 60 entries, we are over the moon.

"We are hoping that lots of people will stop in the dale to view the scarecrows, which are all by the roadside."

The scarecrows will be brought together for a grand display on the showfield on Saturday.