Spooky Peterborough unleashes Halloween horror

Youngsters have been dressing up for fun events held across the city which have helped raise money for charity.

Some of the best costumes were on display at Railworld Wildlife Haven which had a week’s worth of treasure hunts, with Mayor of Peterborough Cllr Chris Ash handing out prizes donated by Smyths Toys, Hobbycraft and the Co-op in Oundle Road.

Winners included Francesca D’Agostino-Nightingale in the art competition and Cassius Evett in the fancy dress contest, while one family even came dressed as vampires.

Entertainment included facepainting from Taylor’ed Creations.

Railworld manager Dilia D’Agostino said: “It was definitely spooky fun. Railworld had never done this before, but we had such good feedback.”

Emma Hampson organised a Halloween party at Hampton Leisure Centre which raised £362 for the mayor’s charities - Light Project Peterborough, Alzheimer’s Society and Deafblind UK. Peterborough United mascot Peter Burrow was among the guests.

“It was a fantastic turnout,” said Emma, who wanted to thank Jon Deardon, band Rocket ‘57, Carley and Marilyn Butterworth, centre staff, husband Jeffrey, Charlotte Fountain, Cooks to Cater, Scott Warren for donating food and Marco Cereste for paying for the room.

Further spooky efforts came from staff at Sue Ryder in Ortongate Shopping Centre and the HIVE party shop, Honey Bee’s Cafe and The Lime Tree, all in Paston Lane.

And Mandy Scott emailed in to thanks Nicole Hopper - a “young mum who worked tirelessly to bring the local community of Farcet together” last night.

Mandy added: “Nicole decided there needed to be something for young children who aren’t always old enough to go trick or treating and so she set about organising a party at Farcet Village Hall.

“With help from staff at the hall and the local community, the night resulted in children having a disco, free food laid on by staff, a raffle, face painting and party games. People came together to decorate the hall and the party was attended by over 30 children and their families.

“Nicole decided to donate any money raised on the night to PEDS, Peterborough’s Eating Disorder Charity, and a representative from the charity, who attended the party, accepted the donation of £166 made from the raffle, bar and face painting.

“The local people of Farcet had a wonderful evening and this has definitely set the scene for an annual party, bringing children and families together. “PEDS are based at Boroughbury Medical Centre in the city centre of Peterborough and can be contacted by emailing [email protected] or telephoning 01733 391 537. The website is www.pedsupport.co.uk.