CHILDREN from the Basingstoke branch of the National Autism Society (NAS) met up with a rather unusual friend when they paid a visit to National Trust property The Vyne.

They were invited to the historic property in Sherborne St John to see their own scarecrow entry in the venue’s colourful 2012 Olympics Scarecrow Festival.

Nearly 2,000 people visited during its first weekend. Members of the public were treated to sightings of Olympic athletes including cyclists, tennis players, a weight-lifter, hockey player and even a scarecrow of London mayor Boris Johnson clutching an Olympic torch.

The entries will be on show until May 27.

Gemma Parker, NAS Basingstoke deputy branch officer said: “I don’t think any of us had made a scarecrow before, so the process was a little chaotic to start with, but great fun!

“We were delighted to be asked to take part, and Alison Cross, from The Vyne, gave us some really handy practical advice, so it wasn’t hard.

“We used all sorts of stuff, including recycled clothing, pipe cleaners and glitter glue to create an Olympic runner and the children loved the whole process. We can’t wait to do it again!”

Alison, The Vyne’s Scarecrow Festival co-ordinator, added: “As soon as the children saw their own scarecrow entry, they were ecstatic, and they all ran towards it.

“It’s reactions like this that makes the hard work so worthwhile. The kids were really proud of what they had achieved together, and I think this was the case for all the groups that took part.

“The results are amazing, and we’re hoping thousands more people visit the Scarecrow Festival trail before it closes.”

This is the second year that The Vyne has hosted a Scarecrow Festival.

The community project includes entries from local schools, Beaver, Cub and Guide groups, as well as the charity Thrive, which uses gardening to change the lives of disabled people.

Further details are available from 01256 883858.