Scarecrows withstand September storms

A community fundraiser grew arms and legs this September when the Harris walking challenge, in which participants commit to walk 10,000 steps a day for a month, evolved to include a call for participants to build a scarecrow as well.

Throughout September and into October, scarecrows appeared around the island, bringing smiles to the faces of walkers and drivers. Among the creations were Puddle Poppy, who appeared to have got into difficulty in the rain, a Dolly Parton, complete with distinctive wig and eyebrows, a Scott McTominay replica (at the point of scoring his bicycle kick goal), Darla from Finding Nemo, a cook, a ‘scarecow’ and a giant sheep.

At the North Harris Medical Centre, a carecrow’ welcomed patients and

visitors.

As well as helping participants to keep fit and brightening a dreich month, the

challenges supported good causes – the Christmas lights for Tarbert and Leverburgh, and Sarcoma UK.

There were 112 participants of all ages in the step challenge, which was organised by a team of local mums and has raised £2360 so far. We hope to share an update on those who walked the furthest in a future issue.

• It’s not too late to take part in the scarecrow element of the challenge. Weather permitting, scarecrows will stay up until the end of this month. Make your own and/or make a donation at gofundme.com (then search scarecrow).