Scarecrows are cropping up all over a Wiltshire village as it prepares for its annual fete.

West Dean’s men and women of straw – including a traffic cop with a speed gun, a cheerleader, Morris Dancer, an angler, a ski-jumper and a happy-looking drunk surrounded by empties – were judged this week by fete organisers and the winners will be announced at Saturday’s event.

Fete chairman, Derek Howland, said: “There are now 40 scarecrows in place – a truly brilliant effort for a village of only about 120 houses!”

Former racing driver turned TV presenter, “Tiff” Needell, will open the fete which will begin with a procession led by the Sarum Morrismen and children dressed in scarecrow fancy dress.

Displays lined up for the event, which runs from 1pm, include a Harris hawk and gundog working in unison and a demonstration of circus skills including fire-eating, juggling and stilt-walking.

There will be some highly “competitive” events, such as the inter-pub tug o’ war, Pony Club games and laser clay pigeon shooting plus a dog show, craft fair, vintage vehicles, children’s crafts zone and livestock area.

Music will continue in the evening, from 7.30pm to 11pm, with nine-piece Latin band, Atlantico, plus support. Tickets for the evening event, where there will be a bar and food, are £5.