A huge collection of scarecrows is being planned for a garden open day this summer.

It is hoped the number of scarecrows in Staindrop will be the most ever seen in Teesdale, where several villages have put them on show in recent years.

The event on Sunday, July 2, from 2pm to 6pm is being organised in aid of St Mary's Parish Church. Twenty local gardens will be open to the public.

A scarecrow competition is being split into three sections for families, adults and children, with three prizes in each category. Entry forms are available at Cronins Newsagents and from Mrs Ford, of North Green.

Organiser Major William Trotter said: "It is hoped all the contestants apply for forms so a full list can be compiled in advance. It will create a great deal of fun."