St Anne’s School’s entry into the Godmanchester scarecrow competition required some surgery after it was attacked by vandals.

Children in the Out of School Club made Lion King characters Simba, the lion cub, and Rafiki, the monkey.

They were put on display outside the school, but still in the grounds off London Road.

Mum-of-three Carly Gradage witnessed the vandalism, carried out by three boys, as she drove past on Sunday (June 22) morning.

She said: “I noticed three lads at the gate and saw one of them go and maul the scarecrow.

“I slowed down and said ‘What are you doing?’ and they launched Simba at my car.

“It was stupid of me, but I chased them down the road. I was really quite upset. The children had put a lot of effort in.”

They were believed to be aged 15 or 16 and their description was passed to headteacher Adrian Shepherd, who said he would report it to the police.

Mr Shepherd added: “It was left in a horrendous state. It’s trespass and wilful destruction of property.”

Meanwhile, after some running repairs, the scarecrows were put back in place.

“They’re looking great now,” said Mr Shepherd. “Rafiki has a sling and bandages as if he has had first aid.”