A TOWN’s scarecrow festival helped say farewell to the much-loved local rector.

The Alresford Scarecrow Festival saw dozens of the figures created across the town last weekend.

The festival was first held in 2014 but retiring Rev Phil Collins asked for it to be brought forward a year to mark his departure.

One scarecrow was made in the image of his namesake, the 1980s pop star. As well as the scarecrows there was a weekend of music put on by the congregation of St John’s church which Mr Collins has served for 14 years.

Mr Collins, the vicar since 2002, joined in to sing the Scarecrow song from The Wizard of Oz accompanied by the Sunshine Singers from Sun Hill Infant and Junior Schools.

Also taking part were the St John’s Youth Group and the Sun Hill Family Singers.

The two performances, organised by Rosie Waring-Green, were enjoyed by over 230 people set amongst the variety of scarecrows as a backdrop.

Festival organiser Miranda Pinch said around 40 figures had been created.

“We had a lower number but the quality was superb. The festival was about Phil’s retirement and they reflected that. We had them in East Street, West Street, Broad Street, Mill Hill, Winchester Road.

“We also had a fantastic farewell service for Phil on Sunday evening. It was a busy weekend and a lot of good fun, a wonderful send-off for Phil.”

Mr Collins, 66, said: “The weekend was fabulous. It was such fun. It was tinged with emotion and felt like a roller coaster at times.

“It has been a wonderful time, we have thoroughly enjoyed our time and it’s been a privilege and pleasure to serve the people of Alresford and district. I have tried to make the church as accessible as possible.

“I’m not going because I want to, but it’s the right time to go; I have been here 14 years and 42 years in the ministry.

“Alresford is ready for a change. It is nice to go when things are going well. I’m ready for a change in direction now although I don’t yet know what that will be.”

Mr Collins and his wife Jan, an accredited lay minister, are moving from the vicarage in Jacklyns Lane to nearby Four Marks.

A replacement at St John’s is due to be appointed next year.

Mr Collins added: “I’m confident that those choosing the next person will find the right person to complement what I have done.”

His benefice includes the churches in Old Alresford, Bighton and Ovington.