School scarecrows bring a fright to the Festival of Light

Pupils were challenged to create scarecrows that will be seen by thousands of people each evening for the rest of the festival.

Schools were invited to make scarecrows using only their own sustainable materials such as straw, paper or fabric.

Twelve schools took part in the competition, and all of their scarecrows are now being displayed at the Festival of Light as part of the 'Down on the Farm' display.

Rickleton Primary were crowned the winners for their colourful creation. They won tickets for the whole class to see this year's pantomime, Aladdin, at the Sunderland Empire.

Second place was awarded to Barnes Junior School, who entered a pirate scarecrow 'Captain Barnacle Barnes' and won £150 worth of tokens to be used on books, crafts or sports kit. Third place went to Ryhope Infants, who created a scarecrow to look like King Charles. They won £50 worth of tokens for the school.

All of the schools who took part were given five family tickets to the Festival of Light, which runs until Saturday 12 November.

Councillor Linda Williams, Sunderland City Council's Cabinet Member for Vibrant City, judged the competition. She said: "The children have been really creative, making scarecrows out of all kinds of sustainable materials. All of the scarecrows looked absolutely brilliant, so everyone who has taken part can be really proud of their work. I look forward to seeing them displayed in the park for the rest of the Festival of Light's visitors to enjoy."

Teacher Claire Hindson from Rickleton Prrimary said: "The scarecrow was lovingly created by our wonderful class council team. They really enjoyed creating colourful clothing inspired by the colours of the Pride flag. Celebrating everyone's individuality is part of our ethos here at Rickleton Primary School."

The scarecrows are now on display at the Festival of Light and can be viewed in the Down on the Farm area.

The Festival of Light will run every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Saturday 12 November, and will open every day over half term, week beginning 24 October.

Visitors are advised that all tickets must be pre-booked online in advance as there will be no tickets for sale at the event site.

Tickets are £3 per person and discounts are available for groups of three or more, with free entry for children under two. 

Purchase tickets for the Festival of Light by visiting: https://www.mysunderland.co.uk/fol