An “amazing” autumn festival that “brings families together” could be cancelled if low turnout continues, organisers said.
The Little Lever and Darcy Lever Scarecrow Festival ran until Sunday (October 13) with only 35 entrants, the fewest in its three years running.
And the event was almost cancelled “due to low numbers”, despite this year’s scarecrows being hailed as “amazing”.
And competitors showcased their “creative” scarecrows at the front of their gardens for people from all over Bolton to see.
Displays inspired by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Michael Jackson and Julia Donaldson’s children’s book The Scarecrow’s Wedding tied for first place.
Three winners were selected for first, second and third place because of few entries.
Awards were given out on Sunday at Little Lever Cricket Club, in a room filled with stalls selling food and crafts.
Cllr Andrea Taylor-Burke, who represents the ward, organised the festival.
She said: “It was our third time running it.
“This year we had our lowest turnout yet, but the quality of the entries was amazing.
“We nearly cancelled this year due to numbers, but I’m really glad we didn't.
“The festival is always a great event and brings families and the community together.
“Usually, I do three categories for businesses, schools, and residents however due to the low numbers we just did three of each place.
“We also had a People's Choice Award that was voted for at the celebration day.
“The winner got £100 cash and a trophy.
“Thinking ahead to next October, we may have to change the time of year to get more people involved.
“I hope that numbers will improve or this could unfortunately be our last scarecrow festival.”
Still, the awards ceremony at Little Lever Cricket Club thrilled contestants.
Cllr Taylor-Burke said: "The atmosphere was lovely.
"It had a community feel.
"Children excited to see if they had won and to receive their certificates.
"Jack the Pumpkinhead, our mascot, scared a few adults when he moved.
"And the kids loved him.
"Well, most of them."
Andrea Moxon, stewardess at the Little Lever Cricket Club, said: “It wasn’t as busy as last year, but the entries were very creative.
“There were a lot of children about.
“And a lot of stalls selling cakes, jewellery and food like chilli con carne.
“The money from the stalls went to the Little lever Community Group.”
Little Lever and Darcy Lever Scarecrow Festival, was set up by Cllr Andrea Taylor Burke to "bring the community back together".
Little Lever and Darcy Lever Scarecrow Festival started in 2021.
Bolton residents could follow a QR code map to view the scarecrows in the competition.
Competitors were given a gold bow to display in their front garden to indicate that they had a scarecrow to show.
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