FUN-loving families will have something to crow about at Arrow Valley Countryside Centre this Bank Holiday.

On Monday, the Battens Drive centre will host its annual gathering of scarecrows and residents are invited to join in the fun from 10am.

Families are urged to bring along their own scarecrows or to make one on the day, with Redditch Mayor Diane Thomas judging which is the best at 4pm.

Along with scarecrow making and competitions, there will be face painting, archery, plays, craft activities and stalls.

Entry and most activities are free.

Centre spokesman Nick Martin said: "Bring along old clothes for your scarecrow - the quirkier the better!"

He added: "If you can't wait until then, why not come along to a scarecrow making drop-in session on Thursday.

''Don't forget to bring old clothes and £1 for other materials and then bring your scarecrow back for judging on Monday."

The workshop runs from 10am-3pm.

For more details, call 464000.