Grab your garlic and open the curtains - hundreds of vampires have swooped on Sussex.

A sea of black capes, red dresses and fanged teeth graced Crawley on Saturday to set a British record for the biggest gathering of vampires.

More than 500 of the blood-thirsty creatures gathered at the Shocktober Fest Halloween festival at Tulleys Farm for their record-breaking attempt, with some having flown from all corners of the country.

And, after a careful count, the participants set a new British record of 503 vampires.

Richard Booker, from Exeter, travelled 179 miles for the gathering.He said: “We've had a fantastic night meeting up with other vampires and going round all the different haunted houses.

“We're thrilled to be part of setting a new UK record.”

The current world record for most vampires was set by Kings Dominion amusement park in Virginia, USA, when 1039 vampires congregated on September 30.

Stuart Beare, owner of Tulleys Farm Shocktober Fest and organiser of the vampire world record attempt, said: "We had a fantastic turnout of vampires, it was a busy night with well over 2,000 on site, and some very imaginative costumes.

“However because of the strict Guinness dress code for vampires there were many who could not be officially counted.

“I'd like to thank all the vampires who turned out for the event, it was a fantastic night and although we fell short of breaking the world record we have set a new UK record with 503 vampires.”

The vampires at Tulleys Farm were treated to a concert from classic rock band The Animals and Friends before testing their bravery on six scary park rides and haunted houses.

Tulleys Farm Shocktober Fest Scream Park is open selected nights until November 2.

For more information visit www.tulleyshalloween.co.uk.