Police in Lancashire, England, are facing mockery for a plan to teach villagers how to build scarecrows as a method to combat speeding on rural roads. The initiative comes after years of resident complaints and follows a tragic accident where a teenager driving at excessive speed caused a fatal crash.
Residents of Aughton had repeatedly called for traffic-calming measures. In December 2024, 17-year-old Max Greenhouse died when a car, driven by 17-year-old Joe McCaldon who had passed his test six days prior, lost control in a 40mph zone and crashed. McCaldon was convicted of causing death by dangerous driving and sentenced to four years detention.
In response to ongoing concerns, the local neighborhood policing team announced a scarecrow-making workshop. After consulting with residents and councilors, the police identified scarecrows as the "most receptive" idea. Officers stated they had sourced materials and planned a community workshop at the end of August to construct the scarecrows and create "SLOW DOWN" signs for approved locations. A Facebook post from Ormskirk and Rural West Lancs Police described the event as an "opportunity to speak to local officers and other residents," with refreshments provided.
The plan appears to be inspired by "Speedo," a scarecrow dressed as a police officer, complete with a fake speed gun, created by parish councilor Edie Pope in 2019 in the nearby village of Lydiate. Pope's scarecrow reportedly helped slow traffic, though it was eventually vandalized.
However, the Aughton police initiative has drawn sharp criticism. Some residents have condemned the idea as a "sick joke" and an "absolute insult," particularly those affected by speeding-related tragedies. Justine Sleight, involved in a campaign by Max Greenhouse's family, questioned the effectiveness of scarecrows as a serious road safety measure, urging for "proper, enforceable action."
Caroline Harrison, who lost a young person on the same road, expressed disgust, suggesting that police and the judicial system should focus on stronger sentences, longer driving bans, and increased policing rather than "art and craft night for the locals."
John Waugh, chairman of Aughton Parish Council, called the plan "aghast" and stated it felt like the police were treating a major local problem with disdain, warning that without proper traffic calming, another tragedy is likely.
In defense of the initiative, a spokeswoman for Lancashire Police acknowledged the plan might seem unconventional but emphasized that road safety is a priority. She added that the police are committed to engaging with and supporting communities passionate about tackling speeding and dangerous driving, citing the scarecrow project as a community initiative that supplements standard practices like community speed watch and mobile speed cameras.