Yesterday evening (29 October), brave locals entered The Ancient High House under the cover of darkness for a special halloween event.

Famously haunted, visitors were invited to explore the Ancient High House after closing time with each of the floors decorated to reflect the spooky season.

A number of talks took place throughout the evening for those who dared to listen.

Topics ranged from the witches' marks (symbols carved, burned or painted into the walls of old buildings thought to provide protection from witches) to the history of Halloween.

Audiences were enthralled with folk tales such as the story of Jack O'The Lantern while some attendees ventured upstairs to take part in tarot readings.

Natasha, duty manager at Historic Stafford said: "Halloween is really fun, so we like to get involved."

The staff at Historic Stafford work hard to make sure that events are informative, affordable and accessible to local people.

Natasha is keen to encourage "community engagement" in Historic Stafford's "amazing sites" and hopes that special events help a wider number of people to experience the area's heritage up close.

Upcoming events at The Ancient High House:

31 October: Haunted High House

3 November- 14 November: Exhibition of drawings and paintings by professional artist Mark Lippett

21 November: Visit from Father Christmas

28 November: The Survival of the Princes in the Tower talk by Matt Lewis

Click here for more information.