A SHOPPING centre is giving youngsters the chance to transform themselves into ghouls and ghosts for Halloween.

Durham's Millburngate Centre is holding a free face-painting session on Saturday, between noon and 3pm, when Durham University Supporting Street Kids will transform children into scary creatures.

Youngsters who get their face painted will be treated to a packet of Halloween sweets.

The centre and retailers Thornton's, MVC, MOJI, Clintons, The Early Learning Centre and Milligan's will also give away Halloween prizes, including fancy dress costumes, cakes and hampers.

Centre director Andy Bradley said: "Halloween is all about dressing up and having fun, and we are very happy to help with this.

"Our retailers have a great selection of Halloween merchandise and, with the face-painting and give-aways, everyone is sure to have a great time at Millburngate this weekend.''