The Salvation Army brings storybook magic to Swindon with launch of first-ever Harvest Scarecrow Trail

This Harvest season, The Salvation Army in Swindon Gorse Hill is inviting the local community to step into a world of imagination as it proudly presents its very first Harvest Scarecrow Trail. Running from Saturday, 24th October to Saturday, 31st October, this creative and family-friendly event aims to bring colour, fun, and a sense of togetherness to the streets of Gorse Hill.

Organised as a celebration for everyone who lives and works in the neighbourhood, the trail will feature 22 scarecrows designed by local households, businesses, and community groups. This year’s theme is “Children’s Books,” with participants drawing inspiration from beloved classics such as The Gruffalo, Paddington Bear, Alice in Wonderland, The Rainbow Fish, and The Cat in the Hat.

Theresa Torr, who leads The Salvation Army Swindon Gorse Hill said, “For years, surrounding villages have hosted wonderful scarecrow trails, and we felt it was time Gorse Hill joined in and did it our way. We wanted to create something that would bring a bit of autumn joy to our streets and unite our community. It is our prayer that this trail not only brings smiles to faces but also fosters a deeper sense of connection among neighbours.”

The trail is open to all, and residents do not need to display a scarecrow to participate in the hunt. Trail maps are available for purchase at a cost of £1 from two convenient locations: The Salvation Army Church on Chapel Street and The Salvation Army Charity Shop on Cricklade Road. Both locations will also be proudly displaying their own scarecrows for the community to enjoy.

Hayley Purnell, the Community Centre Manager at Salvation Army Gorse Hill said, “We are thrilled to see the community come together for this event. The excitement is already building, and we can’t wait to see how our local families and businesses bring these famous book characters to life. It’s a fantastic way to get creative, enjoy the fresh air, and celebrate our wonderful neighbourhood.”

Once participants have completed the trail, maps should be returned to the Salvation Army on Chapel Street. The entry with the most correct answers will win a special Children’s Book Hamper. To ensure fairness, if there are multiple winners, a random name generator will be used to select the recipient.

For more information, to sign up to display a scarecrow, or to inquire about maps, please call (01793) 436928, message the team on Facebook, visit the addresses below or email Swindon.GorseHill@salvationarmy.org.uk.

Event Details:

Dates: Saturday 24th October – Saturday 31st October

Map Cost: £1

Map Pick-up Locations:

    *  The Salvation Army Swindon Gorse Hill, Chapel Street, SN2 8DA

    *  The Salvation Army Charity Shop, Cricklade Road, SN2 8AF

As a community centre, The Salvation Army in Swindon Gorse Hill church is committed to meeting the needs of the local community. Whether through children’s work such as Eden Patch, the Community Support Hub, or weekly groups for adults, the focus is always on caring for people and helping them to thrive. To learn more about the church and charity’s community work in Gorse Hill and also donate towards their efforts, visit their website: website: Swindon Gorse Hill | The Salvation Army.