But if children at Claverdon School hoped to replace their headteacher with a lifelike replica they were not so successful.

The straw-stuffed figures were part of a three-day celebration of village life in Claverdon, Preston Bagot and Wootton Wawen that involved a scarecrow competition, novelty dog show, art and craft displays and cricket matches.

On the opening night there was a performance by Stratford-based Orchestra of the Swan at Preston Bagot's All Saints Church.

Families travelled between the three villages during the weekend to see attractions such as miniature horses and prize-winning sheep.

They also judged more than 100 scarecrow entries in a 10-mile area, including two conducting speed checks so convincingly that Claverdon residents reported an increase in the number of drivers staying within the limit.

The celebration was organised by those working at churches in the three villages.

Among the events was an open air service in Claverdon where the Rev Canon Lawrence Mortimer told the congregation that communities should look outwards as well as inwards.

He said: "We are sharing a vision across our community. That is good. But we are celebrating not only our own villages but something much bigger.

"It is surprising how many in our midst have struck up connections with missions in China and with projects supporting people in Africa."