A UNIQUE nativity scene with life-sized scarecrows has been assembled by villagers.

Weeks of hard work finally paid off when the residents of Holdenhurst unveiled their stunning nativity scene, which boasts 13 models stuffed with hay.

Wendy Sharp and her husband Alan masterminded the remarkable display and were among those who helped create the characters, including scarecrows as an Angel Gabriel, The Three Kings and the shepherds.

Lambs and a donkey complete the nativity scene on the green at the entrance to the picturesque village, along with a 15ft Christmas tree and a crib. Wendy said: “The whole community has really come together to help out, it has been a fantastic effort.

I have never known so much enthusiasm.

“People come from all over to come and have a look at the nativity and I love to see people’s faces light up when they look at it.”

This is the second year the nativity scene has been assembled at the village – which lies just outside Bournemouth – and residents of all ages have been getting involved.

Jessica Tarrant, 9, who is one of 15 children said: “All my brothers and sisters have been helping out with painting the faces and stuffing the models. It has been really fun.”

The structure used for the stable has even been extended this year to accommodate more life-sized models.

Daniel Witheridge, 16, said: “They asked me to help design and extend the stable this year, so I’ve had to get extra materials.”

A Christmas Fayre will be held at the Holdenhurst Village Hall on November 30.