THERE’S an unusual guest currently on the tour in Monmouthshire – Basil the gardening scarecrow.

From the market to the pub, the scarecrow, dressed in his jeans, waistcoat and hat, has been on tour in the area promoting the open gardens event being held in Llanvair Discoed.

The mascot, who is being cared for by volunteers from the festival, is spreading the word about the weekend event which also includes a flower festival and scarecrows display.

Among his visits, Basil visited Caldicot Market last Tuesday and also spent a week in the village’s pub, The Woodland Tavern.

Other visits include to Chepstow Garden Centre and the Fudge Fairy sweet shop in Caldicot

One of Basil's carers, Heather Brogan, said: “He’s doing very well."

But she added: "He’s losing a bit of hair; he’s pulling his hair out.”

This week, Basil will be based at Caerwent Post Office .

Postmistress at Caerwent, Sarah Woodfield, said of Basil’s stay: “He’s going to be sitting in the front window because he has no more appointments until the end of the weekend.

“We have had lots of comments.

"Everyone’s enjoyed meeting him.”

Following his stint at the Post Office, Basil will then be in Magor Square on the May bank holiday, May 5.

He will also visit Chepstow Library on May 6.

Other scarecrows have been made by the villagers, based on children’s characters, including Peppa Pig, and will feature at the event.

The open gardens event will take place on Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18 from 10.30am to 5pm on both days.

Entrance to the flower festival and the gardens is £5 per adult and children under 16 get in free.

There will be 14 gardens open for public viewing, a coffee shop selling drinks and cakes with music being played throughout the day.

There will also be a plant stall and other stalls selling garden related items and produce.

The flower festival, based at the St Mary’s Church, will be based around the theme of Hatches, Matches and Despatches (Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals).

The Woodlands Tavern will also be open for refreshments.

For more information, follow Basil’s adventures at facebook.com/llanvairopengardens

You can also follow his tweets on Twitter @ScarecrowBasil