Now in its third year, the festival will feature a range of attractions, entertainment and family fun on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

There will also be morris dancing, line dancing and a barbecue as well as exhibitions on coal mining, World War One and religious sculptures.

The festival will see hundreds of scarecrows parade through Charnock Richard on Sunday.

Villagers have already produced some very inventive scarecrows of popular TV and film character, including Elvis, Miss Piggy and Star Trek's Mr Spock.

Margaret Stewart, of Charnock Richard Parochial Church Council, said: "Last year we had some amazing creations and we hope it will be even better this year.

"There will be something for all ages and there are many activities planned throughout the weekend in the school, the Old School and on the school field."

The Parade of Living Scarecrows will be leaving from the church at 3pm on Sunday and led by the Red Rose Jazz Band.

On Saturday night, the Band of the Kings Division will present the Last Night of the Proms.

For more details please contact Margaret Stewart on 01257 792692 or 792536.