St Mary’s Swillington have held the first Swillington Scarecrow Festival recently, raising much needed funds for their church’s major renovation work.
Seen by the village as ‘their’ church, the Friends of Swillington Church was formed by Becky, Lauren and Susie (pictured, right) to help raise funds for renovation work, running many events and activities.
On Saturday, August 30 the Friends held the first Swillington Scarecrow Festival.
There were over 35 scarecrows throughout the village, and a trail map was produced for people to follow which started in Church where there were also games, drinks, and hot and cold food.
Margaret Forth, PCC Secretary at the church, said: “The whole village seemed to participate creating a lovely community buzz with groups of people traveling the route and talking about the very creative exhibits.
“The church was a hive of activity with everyone enjoying the hospitality and fun, and £2,000 was raised in total.
“It has been rewarding to work with these enthusiastic people and has led to many more people visiting our church building to take part in these events, giving us opportunities to interact with a wide variety of families, children and older residents.
“It has also created greater links between other community groups who have been so generous in facilitating activities.
“We look forward to a host of similar events taking place later in the year.”
Working together the Friends raised £6,000 for church in 2024 with a wide variety of events, including being involved with the Village Council and Swillington Sports and Social Club in the first Christmas light switch on in the village in November 2024.