AN Exmoor village is bringing back its scarecrow festival in May after a 16-year absence.

The event in Wootton Courtenay will raise funds for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, which faces rising fuel costs.

Villagers are being asked to collect entry forms at a cost of £5 from the village stores to be returned by May 6 in time for judging from Saturday, May 9.

There is no theme for the competition, with people left to use their own imaginations when creating their scarecrows.

A spokesperson said: “Village brains are whirring, creative juices are flowing, and amazing scarecrow plans are emerging, and all in a good cause.”

Prizes will be presented in a number of categories during a barbecue on the village playing field on Sunday, May 10.