A SPECTACULAR array of scarecrows appeared around a Frinton shopping centre for a special festival.

The scarecrow spectacular was set up by Frinton and Kirby Scout Group at the Triangle shopping centre over the weekend.

More than 50 home-made scarers were created especially for the event by locals groups, schools, businesses and families.

They were set up in lifelike poses around the shops, including a workman and a group sat around a camp fire.

Scout leader Lorna Keeble said: “We had big, small, traditional and quirky scarecrows filling the Triangle.

“They were all donated by local groups and the event was aimed at bringing together all ages and elements of the local community with the simple idea of making a scarecrow and putting it on display for a day.”

The event raised more than £1,000, which will help Scouts get new tents and attend the Essex International Jamboree next year.

Triangle traders also raised £333, which will go towards their Christmas light fund.

A live scarecrow managed to sneak into the festival line-up as well.

John Williams, from Creative Amateur Stage Theatre, dressed as a scarecrow and joined the festival to advertise his group’s upcoming show.

Titled (Not) The End of the Pier Show, it will feature songs, dance and comedy, as well as “a little seaside sauce”, according to organisers.

The show will be performed at the Public Hall, in Holland-on-Sea, on Saturday at 7pm.

All profits will go to the Essex Air Ambulance.