There was no shortage of brains on show at the inaugural School Scarecrow Competition in Balclutha yesterday.
Eight Clutha district schools entered the event for its first outing at the town's community garden, after it was established to stimulate young interest in all things green-fingered.
Garden spokeswoman Beatrice Pratt praised the ''clever, gorgeous'' designs put forward by the many creative local teams, and said organisers were delighted with the first-time response from schools.
Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan was guest judge, and declared Balclutha Primary School's ''Recycle Rex'' the winner.
''I feel he bears a striking resemblance to somebody, but I can't quite put my finger on it,'' he said.
Warepa School's ''Hayley'' was second, and St Joseph's School, Balclutha, third.
St Joseph's years 3-4 teacher Rowena Miller said ''Carecrow the scarecrow'' had captured the imagination of pupils.
''We wanted a caring theme in tune with our Catholic school values, so Carecrow has small pompom animals living on him and a friendly character.''
She said the school now hoped to visit the garden more frequently to help with weeding and other outdoor tasks.
After the event's inaugural success, Mrs Pratt said it was now likely to be held annually.
The garden will open officially to the public on October 1.
