A retired Bothwell joiner has brought one of Scotland’s favourite landmarks to the village for this year’s Scarecrow Festival.
Nando Franchitti, affectionately known in the area as Nonno, has once again surpassed all expectations with his entry to the scaled-down event.
For the 71-year-old worked tirelessly night after night in his garage to recreate the Kelpies - a sculpture he has always admired.
And the finished article has been well received, with villagers, visitors and passers-by praising Nando’s fabulous efforts.
Proud daughter Angelina, who even had the Kelpies scarecrows on display at her stunning garden wedding last Friday, told the Advertiser: “Dad just loves the Scarecrow Festival each year and bringing joy to the people of the village with his creations.
“In fact, every year people message me on the lead up to the festival with anticipation of what he will produce next. Then when they do go on display we have people outside taking pictures with the scarecrows as they just love the work he puts in.
“Although this year the Scarecrow Festival hasn’t gone as planned, due to Covid-19, the organisers were keen to bring some cheer in the village by asking people to still participate and display their creations.
“Dad was delighted and worked away in his garage every night, honing new skills that he had never used before to finish the look.
“The Kelpies have always been something he has admired and following an illness and hospital treatment last year I think he never expected to be fit enough to participate again, but he did and we are so proud that he has recreated such a fantastic display.”
Previous years have seen Nando, of Silverwells Crescent, produce replica scarecrows of Mary Poppins, Peter Pan, Dumbo, Up, Aladdin, Moana and Noddy.
Following the festival each year his work is donated to St Brides Primary, Bothwell, for all the children and staff to enjoy.
Angelina added: “Dad’s three grandchildren have all attended St Bride’s – Rumeysa and Elanisa now at Holy Cross – but Nico is still only in primary three at the school and ,the scarecrows go down a treat dotted around the school grounds.
“Dad even helps to make props for the school shows, takes woodwork classes with the pupils and really does make an extra special effort throughout the village. He is so humble and just does whatever anyone asks of him with no moans, so the festival means a lot to the family as he gets a little recognition each year for the work he puts in.
“We are so proud of him and his work and I was delighted to have his scarecrow display at my wedding last week. It has definitely been a talking point!”
