Even the scarecrows popped open umbrellas to brave the rain at the Old Catton flower and craft festival at the weekend.

The three day event saw more than 70 scarecrows entered into a competition, which were scattered around the village.

Wills and Kate scarecrows sheltered underneath umbrellas outside a church while a scarecrow dressed as a cat prowled in the bushes.

The scarecrows competition was a new addition to the festival this year with families, schools and Brownies and Rainbows submitting entries.

Old Catton Rainbows created four scarecrows called Look, Learn, Love and Laugh.

A scarecrow dressed as a vicar doing a headstand greeted visitors at the entered the church, to mimic the vicar at the Royal Wedding earlier this year.

Determined to not let the rain ruin the day, some braved it and went on the scarecrow trail while others went into the church hall for facepainting and stalls selling jewllry, books and plants.

The three-day event also included a flower festival which was held in the church and an arts and crafts fair which was held in the church hall.

Old Catton Junior school became an art gallery for the weekend filled with exhibits of children's work.

Diane Parsons, who helped to organise the events said: 'St Margaret's flower festival happens every three years. This year the theme was hobbies and activities. We decided to involve the whole community so people who don't like flowers can get creative. We have 74 scarecrows, it seems to have attracted the men and children.

'We are trying to get everyone on board.'

Mrs Parsons said the scarecrow entries were fantastic

'People are driving along seeing them. We wanted to extend the festival so more of the community could take part.'

The event raised money for the church which is hoping to get new kitchen and toilet facilities.

Unfortunately a Spongebob squarepants scarecrow was stolen on Friday night.

*To see more photos from the event, log on to www.eveningnews24.co.uk

*Are you organising a community event? Call reporter Lucy Wright on 01603 772495 or email lucy.wright@archant.co.uk