West Sussex village reveals famous judge for popular scarecrow festival, with hundreds expected to visit over October half-term

Now in its seventh year, Ferring Scarecrow Festival has announced Wadars Animal Rescue as its chosen charity for 2026.

The Ferring-based animal welfare charity has been rescuing local wildlife and rehoming companion animals since 1969. Last year, Wadars rescued more than 1,400 injured, orphaned and at risk birds and wildlife, and rehomed hundreds of cats, dogs and other animals.

Broadcaster John Inverdale will be this year's judge. He will be touring the village on Wednesday, October 28, and giving a talk that evening at The Orange Tree at 7pm.

In a video posted on the Ferring Scarecrow Festival Facebook page, John said: “I can't wait to be here in Ferring on October 28, talking here in the Orange Tree about all things to do with sport and my career, and also that whole day I'm going to be walking around the village judging what I hope will be more than 100 entries in this year's scarecrow competition.”

To boost the fundraising, organiser Stuart Diver has set himself a rowing challenge during festival week, covering one mile for every scarecrow that is built and officially registered.

He will be on his rowing machine, posting his progress on Facebook during the festival and has already raised £125. Visit www.justgiving.com/page/stuartsrowingchallenge to make a donation.

Stuart also makes the festival trophies and there will be ten available to win this year.

Scarecrow builders have donated £5 to take part and visitors can pick up a festival map at The Orange Tree for £2 cash or by making a minimum £5 donation online via www.justgiving.com/page/ferringscarecrowfestival2026

The event is running from Saturday, October 24, to Sunday, November 1. Some pumpkins on the trail will contain letters and these will make a word or two, for the chance to win a prize.