Romney Marsh's most celebrated cinematic scarecrow is set to smuggle on the small screen once again.

Dr Syn, the Dymchurch parson who led a double life as the leader of a smugglers' gang, has thrilled generations of readers and cinemagoers since he first appeared in Russell Thorndike's novels at the start of the last century.

Dressed as a scarecrow, and riding a black horse across the Marsh, Dr Syn has appeared in a number of film, theatre and TV adaptations over the years.

In 1962, Walt Disney made a three part Dr Syn mini-series starring Patrick McGoohan called The Scarecrow of Romney Marsh, which was later edited into a feature film for the cinema.

Disney is now planning to release the mini-series on DVD, and Romney Marsh artist Terry Anthony, who has made his name with paintings of scenes from Dr Syn, has been approached to appear on one of the extra features.

Terry, who grew up in St Mary’s Bay but now lives in Ashford, discovered Dr Syn through the film on its original cinema release in 1963, so when producer Ted Nicolaou contacted him, he knew he had to get involved.

He said: "I saw the film as a child and I've made my career painting Dr Syn, so it's great that I've been asked to do the DVD."

Terry also feels a new silver screen incarnation for Dr Syn is just around the corner.

"Dr Syn in Romney Marsh is a bit like Robin Hood is in Nottingham, and I believe it would be perfect for a feature film," he said.

Biannual Day of Syn

Every other year the people of Dymchurch re-enact the exploits of Dr Syn. It is an event that allows local charities to raise money for their organisations. This August Bank Holiday will see the infamous scarecrow once again take on the customs and excise men during the Day of Syn event.

For more information about Dr Syn and The Day of Syn visit www.dymchurchdayofsyn.org.uk.