A trip to one of the world's spookiest sites has inspired two artists to create a Hallowe'en festival.

Ian Parton and Jo Carey visited a night-time pumpkin display while on holiday in Salem, Massachusetts, home of the famous witch trials of 1692.

Mesmerized by the hundreds of carved creations, the couple vowed to set up a similar event in Brighton.

For six nights this October and November, the twisting and turning paths of the Preston Park Rockery will be taken over by hundreds of pumpkins as Brighton's first Great Pumpkin Trail takes shape.

The event will be set to a soundtrack including an atmospheric mix of music and lit by floodlighting, fairy lights and mirror balls.

Members of the public are encouraged to bring their own pumpkins and don fancy dress.

Jo, who lives in Western Road, Hove, said: "Seeing the festival in Salem made us realise there's never anything decent to do in Brighton on Hallowe'en so we decided to do it ourselves."

Jo, 29, and Ian, 30, a musician, artist and film researcher, have been practising their carving skills and perfecting their pumpkin soup recipe, bowls of which will be on sale.

Jo said: "We're still looking for local artists to carve pumpkins. We're also looking for sponsorship from businesses."

There will be face painting and competitions for youngsters. The event runs from October 28 to November 2, from 6pm to 10pm.

Admission is £4.50 for adults, £2.50 for seniors and £2.50 for children up to 13, who must be accompanied by an adult. Call Robin Pridy on 01273 676764 or email thegreatpumpkintrail@hotmail.com