It is a tale that Beatrix Potter herself would have been proud of.
For in Trawden, one resident has created a Mr McGregor scarecrow that has fetched more than £12,000 for community causes.
Lynne Barnes (61), of Clogg Heads, produced her first 6ft. Peter Rabbit villain for the first Trawden Garden Festival and Scarecrow Trail back in 2004, where it was awarded first prize.
From there, it has been picked up by Buckle Yeat Guest House, in Near Sawrey, where guests have been having their picture taken with the model and handing out small donations.
Former mill worker Lynne, who last year won the Linden Homes prize for Best Private Front Garden at the North West In Bloom awards, said: “I feel really proud about the fact he is raising funds for charity.
“I go up to the Lake District quite often and I asked the owners at Buckle Yeat Guest House if they would be interested in taking a Mr McGregor scarecrow. They said they would like to, and they put a plant pot for donations next to him.
“Over the years, I have replaced the scarecrows when they get past it, so they have got the third one I made at the moment. He has raised so much money, and that gives me a real buzz.”
And owner of Buckle Yeat Guest House Robert Kirby added: “The Mr McGregor scarecrow has raised money for community causes, including for the local playground, which was in dire straits, for the local church, and to a local girl who was doing a walk for a cancer charity.
“The kids love it, especially since Beatrix Potter is having a bit of a renaissance at the moment. The daily record we have collected is £23 and €2, but we have raised about £1,000 every year.”
Lynne’s scarecrows, which she produces by stuffing chicken wire, have been inspired by her love for Miss Potter.
In the 100th anniversary of Mrs Tiggy Winkle, she also made a figure of the fictional hedgehog – which went on to become a mascot for a hedgehog rescue centre.
Her Mr McGregor and Peter Rabbit’s Jacket scarecrow, as well as an array of Beatrix Potter props, will be on show at the next Trawden Garden Festival, where she will once again be entering the “Small Garden” category.
The popular event will take place on July 12th and 13th, and this year it has been given a First World One theme.
