Spooky scarecrows will soon start cropping up all across a Saddleworth village again as the hotly anticipated Halloween-themed trail returns. 

The scarecrow trail, which is organised by the Friends of Diggle School group, takes place twice a year to raise funds for the primary school. 

In April this year, the village held an Easter trail with a musical theme that saw scarecrows made to look like everyone from the Spice Girls and The Village People to a 'Madchester' collective and the Nirvana baby from the 'Nevermind' album. 

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Now it's back again for the spooky season with ghouls, witches, vampires and more to be found along the route. 

Also read: The best scarecrows in Diggle crowned as trail raises thousands for village school

The Oldham Times: Aliens from Area 51 came to Diggle last yearAliens from Area 51 came to Diggle last year (Image: Diggle Scarecrow Trail)

Over the years, residents have got in the spirit and put their creative talents to the test, creating scarecrows inspired by the Ghostbusters and Area 51 as well as Frankenstein, creepy clowns and werewolves.

While the scarecrows for this year's trail remain a surprise for those who dare to venture, trail sheets can be purchased in advance for £3 from The Gate Inn, The Diggle Hotel and Grandpa Greene's.

The event starts on Friday, October 20, and will end on Halloween (October 31), with all the proceeds benefiting the children of Diggle school.

In a fundraising update for 2022/23, Friends of Diggle school revealed it has raised an amazing £18,977.02 for the primary through initiatives such as the scarecrow trail, Easter egg hunt, various raffles, Elf film night, 'penny wars', 'wacky' races and a colour run.

The Oldham Times: A scene from Ghostbusters came to the trailA scene from Ghostbusters came to the trail (Image: Diggle Scarecrow Trail)

The money has gone towards supporting the school and the children with items such as reception furniture, a running track, year 2 equipment, a maths scheme, Christmas books and soil for a new memorial garden amongst others.

The organisers are now hoping to raise even more money this October and promised there will be "some crackers" this year on the scary trail.

Tracy Buckley, who is one of the organisers, said it's "like the night of the living dead" in her home as she prepares for the big event.

In a post on social media, the Diggle scarecrow trail said: "Who is ready to get spooky?

"Our fabulous spooky trial is back. Have a spooky walk around the lovely village of Diggle trying to find all out amazing scarecrows.

"We have got some crackers this year - not that we want to give anything away of course but you may want to visit Hawkins while you are here or even a quick trip to Nevermore Academy.

"And what's this? Can you smell children? Boook!

"But you'll have to wait and see, of course!"

Those travelling to the event can also park for free at Saddleworth School during the week and on weekends.

Trail sheets can also be purchased online here: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/Friends-Of-Diggle-School.

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