Features

Filmstars and pirates are invading the county as the scarecrow festival season gets underway.

From Millom to Dalston scarecrows will be moving from the fields and onto roadsides and into villages to raise funds for local charities.

The history of the scarecrow in Britain dates back to around 1592.

Throughout the world the human shaped mannequin is to be found in newly planted fields to scare away birds from eating new seeds.

The modern festival scarecrow is frequently made from old clothes with stuffed trousers for legs and old gloves for hands. They are often based on a theme or character.

Throughout the country the scarecrow is known by many names:

• In Somerset they are known as Mommet
• In Devon they are called Murmet
• In Scotland they are known as Tattie Bogles

Is your village having a scarecrow festival? We would love to have pictures of your event.

They can be sent to cumbria@bbc.co.uk.

Scarecrow at Bassenthwaite

Don't forget to include details of where the photograph was taken and your name, so we can give you a mention.