Keep an eye out for some unusual sights in Kirk Michael this week, including a familiar-looking figure guarding a wad of money.

The inaugural ’Great Village Scarecrow Hunt’ is underway, in aid of the Kirk Michael Endowment Fund.

Alongside tributes to NHS workers and an impressive loaghtan sheep, the star of the show is the sharply-dressed likeness of Ayre and Michael MHK (and Treasury Minister) Alfred Cannan, created with the permission of the real man.

As the Manx Independent went to press, wind and rain had left a few exhibits in need of some repairs. But weather permitting there will be as many as 27 scarecrows on display in and around Kirk Michael until Sunday afternoon.

Trail maps and entry sheets are available at Kirk Michael post office and on the popular ’Kirk Michael Massive!’ Facebook page. There is no charge to join in the search but donations are welcomed.

Scarecrow hunters and builders are invited to a Tynwald Day tea party in Ebeneezer Hall on Sunday from 1pm, where prizes will be awarded for the best entries in three categories: adults, age 10-16 and under-10s.

Meanwhile, a special prize will be given to the scarecrow hunter who has discovered and correctly named the most exhibits.

Hannah Leigh, one of the organisers, told the Manx Independent that the idea came from similar events that happen in villages around the UK.

’It’s a fun event to bring everyone together after these challenging times,’ she said.