Scarecrows in the form of Stanley Laurel, Ashley – inspired by Asher the son of Jacob and a long eared owl have mysteriously appeared across Bishop Auckland to Stand Up For British Standards this week.
The scarecrows appeared at spots across the town early on Monday (21 September) and are encouraging MPs to stand with them to celebrate the quality of British food and farming by making sure high food quality, environment and animal welfare standards are enshrined in upcoming trade deals and legislation.
The scarecrows, designed by local artist Laura Brenchley, give a nod to local history and offer the fun opportunity for shoppers to pose using the face cutout sandwich boards and snapping a selfie. The scarecrows bring a serious message to the town that British food standards are under threat, while calling on MPs, food producers, businesses and shoppers to get involved in the campaign.
Conservation charity WWF-UK has created the campaign. Katie White, Executive Director of Advocacy and Campaigns at WWF, said: “Farmers across Bishop Auckland and the North East work hard to make sure the food we eat is safe and healthy and our beautiful countryside is there for generations to enjoy. Britain has some of the highest standards in the world and our farmers are ready to go further to help the country prosper after Brexit.
“There’s a risk that trade deals being struck by the Government right now could undercut our farmers, put low quality food on our shelves, and pollute our local environment. To stop that from happening we urgently need protection in law for our high standards of food quality, environmental protection and animal welfare.”
The sooner MPs commit to standing up for British standards, the sooner the scarecrows can return to their farms. And they’re quite keen to get back home!
The campaign is backed by the local community including Caroline and Graham Tweedle from Acorn Dairies, beef and wheat farmer Lucinda Bird, beekeeper and farmer Nikita Garner and the UK’s leading producer of ancient grain wheat Stephen Cragg. It has also rallied support from plough to plate with local restaurateur Hussain Ahmed who runs a restaurant in Bedlington showing support.
The scarecrows and props are made from local and sustainable materials, including reused clothing and biodegradable hay and straw. Local artist Laura Brenchley has been working with WWF to craft and design the scarecrows to ensure they capture the public’s attention.
Bishop Auckland-based Laura Brenchley said: “As a local artist my work is greatly inspired by nature. I am becoming increasingly aware of the damage which potentially harmful pesticides can do to our wildlife. I think this campaign raises awareness of the need to protect the standards we currently have in Britain and I am delighted to help celebrate the quality of our local produce.”
The scarecrows will return to their farms on the 25th September when their job is done, be sure to snap a selfie or share with your MP while you have the chance.
