CONCERN was mounting last night following the disappearance of a man who has been described as about 5ft tall, slim to medium build and made of straw.

Villagers have designated part of Bishop Middleham, in County Durham, a crime scene after one of the exhibits from its scarecrow competition went missing.

Charlie Chaplin, or at least a scarecrow made in the silent movie legend’s image, was last seen sitting on a bench near High Road, on Saturday evening.

The following morning he was missing, presumed stolen.

Wanted posters have been put up around the village and poeple are hoping he will be found before Saturday’s competition prize-giving.

Audrey Woods, the scarecrow competition organiser, said last night: “Mr Chaplin was last seen wearing a black suit, white shirt, a black tie and a bowler hat with a pair of big black boots.

“I think it was once a child’s suit, so if we can’t find Mr Chaplin we will be looking for a short, well-dressed man with a big feet.

“Now I come to think about it, the bowler hat was a bit on the small side, so members of the public should be on the look out for anyone with an usually small head.

“We’ve never had any problems with scarecrows going missing in the past and we are wondering if someone has just driven past and taken a fancy to him.

“I’m not sure he would have won the competition anyway because, although he was a very well made scarecrow, he has a mask for a face and I’m not sure the judges would have liked it.”

This year’s theme for the fourth annual scarecrow competition is films and it is understood security around Mary Poppins, Gene Kelly and an as yet unnamed Star Wars character has been increased.

It is hoped Mr Chaplin will be found before 1.30pm, when the remaining scarecrows will be on display at St Michael’s Church fair, in the village.

Anyone with information about Mr Chaplin is urged to call 01388-602232.