RESIDENTS of Howle Hill have taken up a unique way of making each other smile during the lockdown: by making scarecrows!

Initiated by Amanda Cornes, the Scarecrow Challenge, which aims to be ‘a bit of fun in these testing times’, has been taken up by 14 residents so far.

The challenge, which is open to any residents who want to take part, was formed with the aim of adding a little bit of cheer as people taking their daily exercise walk past.

“As I watch the news each day for updates on the Covid-19 crisis I feel humbles by the things that people are doing to help communities come together without physically getting together,” Amanda wrote in a sign posted in the village.

“Italy and Spain are taking to their balconies each evening to clap the health care workers for their part in saving lives.

“Children are making rainbows and placing them in their windows to share a smile.

“So, to raise a smile on the hill I though it would be a nice idea to make a scarecrows and place it in a position that anyone taking their daily exercise could see.

“I thought this would add a little bit of cheer as people walk by,” she added.