Daytime Trick or Treat ‘excellent community event’

Around 300 children, all dressed up in Halloween costumes, took part in the Midhurst Town Council daytime Trick or Treat event on October 31.

Over 40 businesses joined in, offering treats to all of Midhurst’s little ghouls, ghosts, witches and wizards.

Writing on Facebook, the Town Council said, “It was fantastic to see the town so busy; thank you to all the businesses that signed up and all our lovely stallholders at the market.

“To the lady who has messaged us to say she is now choosing to move to Midhurst because of the amazing community atmosphere she experienced today – we welcome you with open arms.”

Held alongside the Autumn Market and Halloween Trail, the event was designed to bring the community together while boosting footfall on the high street.

Freya from Wizzbits said that the day was a real success: “The atmosphere was great, and the costumes were adorable.

“It’s really lovely for little ones to be able to join in when it may be too scary for them at night time.

“We had hundreds of little trick-or-treaters, and everyone really seemed to enjoy it.”

Most businesses in the town put out Halloween decorations or offered special deals, from Garton’s spooky hot chocolate to Down to Earth's brilliant window display. Meanwhile, Tesco Express donated 20 bags of sweets to businesses to hand out to the trick-or-treaters.

Midhurst Town Council Chairman Richard Watts said:  “It was wonderful to see Midhurst so vibrant and busy. Thank you to all the businesses whose efforts helped make the day such a success.

“The children looked fantastic in their costumes, and we hope they enjoyed the day as much as we did.”