THE deadline has now passed for entries into Ilminster's annual scarecrow competition.

The town council hopes to have a record number of entries in this years event, and so extended the deadline until May 23.

A spokesman for the council said: "The Ilminster Scarecrow Competition will take place from June 8 to 11.

"The Town Council has entered into the spirit by making scarecrow Andy to advertise the competition and have put him in the window of the Council Chamber.

"The competition is to design, make and display a Scarecrow and is open to all age groups, individuals and organisations. Winners will receive high street gift vouchers.

"The competition will coincide with the Ilminster Midsummer Experience Weekend and gives visitors the opportunity to walk around the town and view the entries.

"Scarecrows do not need to be traditional, they can be themed.

"The Town Council have previously had some marvellous creations including: A Scarecrow toasting marshmallows, an Organic scarecrow named Flora, a carbon copy of Dr Who and his faithful hound K9.

"Participants are free to be as inventive as they wish but are encouraged to use recycled and organic materials. Scarecrows can be made out of virtually anything and be based on any theme."