Halloween is just around the corner

I have very fond memories of Halloween from my childhood, the excitement of choosing a pumpkin with my mum that was just right for carving, making toffee apples and halloween cakes and getting into my fancy dress outfit to go into the streets with my friends trick or treating.

30+ years ago, there wasn't the "fear" that there seems to be now associated with Halloween and most people are on their guard and keep their doors and windows firmly shut.

It is a shame but hardly suprising, that once the dark nights draw in people, espcially the elderly, lock themselves in for the night.

Still, Halloween can be enjoyed by those householders who like to see the varierty of characters turning up at their door and those children and even teenagers who like to dress up and go trick or treating, by following a few simple rules.

I've noticed over the last couple of years that any household which has a pumpkin outside their house seem to be happy to welcome trick or treaters, even if they are not happy about opening their door in the dark they leave a box of sweets outside next to the pumpkin with a message to the trick or treaters in the box of sweets i.e. "Don't scoff the lot, please just take two or three and leave some for the next visitors!"

Also, if you are going out trick or treating, please don't knock on any door which has displayed a sign for you not to !

Are you going out with your little ones, or are you a teenager that's going out with a group of friends ? Maybe your trick or treating isn't stopping at knocking on a few doors and you're going for a bit of "nightlife" too ! Whichever category you fall into, you've gotta look good !

Sainsburys and Peeks Party Store seem to be the only stores which seem to have launched themselves into the Halloween mood in town - with one exception - which I will come to in a moment. Sainsburys have a good choice of Halloween garb in store and on-line. The have a range for the whole family ranging from adult costumes to baby. I love the pumpkin baby bootees - sooooo cute ! Little spider girls, vampires, clowns and skeletons - you name it - they have it ! Check out their range at Sainburys Halloween Costumes. you can choose from there, then give the store a call to see if they have it in stock contact them here.

If you want something that is a bit more individual then have you heard of "Abracadabra" ? They supply male, female and children's Fancy Dress and they say that with their wide selection, they're bound to have something that's perfect for

your party, themed night or masked ball - just give Sandra a call and

she'll be happy to help you make the right choice. They are also able to offer some

flexibility with size alterations so they are definately woth calling. Abracadabra Fancy Dress and Costume Hire are located 10 Minutes from the Centre of Christchurch and have ample parking. Call (01202) 480879.

Want to browse through rails of costumes ? Then  a visit to Peeks Party Store is worthwhile. Again, they have a childrens and adults range. Pointy hats abound and strange coloured hair and facepaints - all under one roof. Some things are quite pricey but a trip here will certainly fill you with inspiration ! Find them here.

Now, I think a prize should go to the most lovely looking Halloween window in town. I spotted it last night when out walking. I was drawn to it in the dark because the shop lights and street lights seemed to bring out a lovely warmth of colour in the deliciously tempting array of Halloween chocolates, sweets and lollies. You have to have a look outside and of course inside at Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe. Find them at the top of the High Street. Once you're in Mr Simms it's a cavern of wickedly tempting goodies. I was particularly amused at the marshmallow sheep faces on sticks !

How will you be spending your Halloween, are you a lover or a hater. What childhood memories does it conjour up for you ?