Island police have launched a manhunt after a Charlie the scarecrow was stolen from just outside the village of Chillerton.

Charlie the mechanic scarecrow from C.S. Vehicle repairs was sat by Sheat Manor Farm industrial park’s signpost on the way into Chillerton village when he was kidnapped under cover of darkness.

“The landlord went down at 11.30pm last night to lock up and there was a commotion going on and some people bundled him into a white car,” said Charlie Summerfield from C.S. Vehicle Repairs.

“The scarecrow was modelled on me, to give the locals a laugh, and was tied to a chair. They took the chair as well and the only thing left was his boots.

“We put a spanner in his pocket on the Friday and someone took that too. He was a family effort made by myself, my partner Sharon, and our two girls Jo and Danni for the scarecrow competition.

“I wish they’d bring him back – I can’t believe they’ve taken a scarecrow. We’re just waiting for the ransom demand.

“It would be lovely to have him back.”

If you have any information as to Charlie the scarecrow’s whereabouts please phone the Gazette newsdesk on 402599 or 07975671518.