BRAVE souls descended on a Keighley park at the weekend as the spectre of Hallowe'en loomed.

Every kind of creature could be found roaming Cliffe Castle Park, as Manorlands staged its first-ever Monster Dash.

And Saturday's event has been given a 'spooktacular' rating.

More than 220 people, in a range of ghostly guises, entered.

They were challenged to complete laps of the fright-filled grounds.

The mile-long course included caves, woods, paths and even a small section of the museum itself, with plenty of scares en route.

Music, lighting and some special effects added to the haunting atmosphere.

Event lead Andrew Wood, a fundraiser at the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice, said the feedback from participants had been "fantastic".

"With a first event you're never absolutely sure how it's going to go but the overwhelming response was positive – everyone really enjoyed it," he said.

"The children, especially, loved it.

"We had about 20 different zones and over 50 volunteers spread around the park so it was a huge team effort, and a big thank-you goes to everybody involved.

"The Cliffe Castle staff gave us fabulous support, members of the museum Friends dressed-up too and the grounds looked superb.

"Twelve people from 24/7 Security had been at the Manchester United game that day but attended to give their services for free."

Entrants were greeted by a suitably-attired Cliff the Castle mascot.

They each received a head torch before setting off and Monster Dash medals were awarded to all finishers.

There were two dashes – a family-friendly event was followed by a scarier session for over-12s and adults.

Among the pre-dash entertainers was Eastburn Fitness Centre's zumba group, with a Thriller routine.

Once all money has been collected, it is expected that the extravaganza – which was organised by Manorlands' Riddlesden and East Morton support group – will raise about £4,000.

"Considering we hadn't tried this before we're pleased with that," added Mr Wood.

"Thanks go to the support group for organising it."