MORE than a thousand ducks and an army of scarecrows are expected to invade a village for May Day celebrations this weekend.

Villagers from Waddington took to the streets for their annual spring fair last year when their planned Church Croft venue had to be abandoned because of foot and mouth restrictions.

But street-based attractions like duck racing down the village stream and wacky waiters proved so popular they are doing it again.

Peter Warburton, of the St Helen's Church Social Committee organising the event, said: "The weather was glorious last year and the village was inundated with an unprecedented number of visitors.

"This year we hope to build on last year's phenomenal success and add new events. Getting away from the traditional marquee-based events meant that everyone got really involved."

An army of more than fifty scarecrows designed by local villagers are expected to invade the village on Saturday.

And would-be waiters will race round the village pubs on Monday picking-up beer and nibbles for refreshment.

Peter said: "In addition to all this mayhem, the May Queen will be crowned and her pretty attendants will dance round a Maypole!"

A three-day flower festival will also be launched in St Helen's Church, Waddington, on Saturday followed by a car boot sale on Sunday. The duck race waddles into action on Monday at 1pm.