• If you go down in Sutton Poyntz today you're sure of a big surprise, For today's the day that the Scarecrows hold their picnic. Alright, it may not be poetry, but it's the best I can do, and it's true - scarecrows are out in force in the village gardens. There's no overall theme this year so imaginations have run riot. This annual smile raising event started on Saturday 19 July, and ends on Saturday 2 August. The winner, announced at the Village Vegetable Show, is selected by public vote, and voting slips are available in the Springhead for £1, or more if you are feeling generous - it's all for a good cause. A fun event for all the family - find the scarecrows and vote for your favourite.

• The annual SP village Vegetable Show is on Saturday 2 August at the Scutt Hall. It starts at 9.30 for competitors to display their wares, with voting by members of the public from 10.30 to 11.30. Light refreshments will be available including delicious homemade cakes. The list of classes in past years has included such things as longest runner bean; heaviest marrow; 3 tomatoes; 5 soft fruit etc. I am ideally qualified to vote on these things being an expert in such matters! There is also the famous “spud in a tub” competition for, surprisingly, the heaviest weight of spuds grown in a tub. Prize giving starts at 11.45am.

• Dust off your beret, fishnet stockings and string of onions for a French Style picnic at the Mission Hall on Sunday 3 August starting at 1 pm. On offer are cheeses, ham, quiche, salads etc; dessert and coffee are included. The cost is £12 per head and tickets are available from Maureen on 835533.

• The next Preston Village Market will be held in the Church Rooms on Saturday 9 August between 10am and 12.30pm. On sale will be various crafts, cards, plants, cakes, savouries and preserves, plus fresh produce and eggs from Wyke Oliver Farm. Traidcraft will also be on sale and of course there will be refreshments available. Funds - last time the amount raised was £102 - go to Dorchester Almshouses, providing primarily for older people from our community and Project Zoe, supporting Chesil Sailability. This was inspired by the 2012 Paralympics' Games to allow all people, regardless of disability, to enjoy sailing. Entry is free but charity donations are appreciated.