HALLOWEEN is fast approaching and something spooky is stirring deep in the heart of the forest.

Ghosts, owls and bats will be on the loose as the Forestry Commission marks the date with a spectacular bash on the dark side.

They are hoping to tingle the spines of visitors to 8,600-acre Dalby Forest, near Pickering, North Yorkshire, by teaming up with a local drama club.

Costumed storytellers will lead walks along illuminated trails through the forest, recounting tales of horror, brought to life by a rogues gallery of colourful characters including witches and vampires, and with plenty of special effects thrown in.

There'll also be fun and games with a blindfold trail devised by the Scarborough Search and Rescue Team.

Wildlife is also expected to put in an appearance in the shape of owls and bats.

Ranger Andrew Orland said: "The forest is the perfect place for Halloween, steeped in legends and folklore that make even hard-bitten sceptics glance over their shoulders."

The fun takes place between 6pm and 8pm on Friday, and money raised will go towards bat and owl conservation, Pickering Dramatic Club and Scarborough Search and Rescue Team.

Entry is £2.50 or £10 for a family ticket, payable at the forest toll at the Thornton Dale entrance. For more details contact (01751) 460378.