Churches are urging youngsters to turn their backs on Halloween festivities which can cause misery for their neighbours.

The Reverend John Gledhall, of Bingley Baptist Church, is among those urging parishioners not to let children take part in festivities that he believes are connected with darkness and unchristian acts such as trick-or-treating.

And he and some of the parishioners at the church have organised a 'party of light' as an alternative.

"It is very hard for parents to explain to young children why they can't wear the costumes they see in all the shops and go trick or treating so we are trying to offer them a very positive alternative," he said.

"Trick-or-treating can be a very intimidating experience for elderly residents who are scared about answering the door at Halloween. We want the children to celebrate all things good and light so that is why we decided to hold the party on the same night. That way they can still have fun but not at the expense of other people."

The Reverend Nick Jones, of St John's Church, Great Horton, Bradford, said they held their first alternative Halloween party 15 years ago. "It is one of the biggest events we offer through the year and very popular with the congregation," he said. This year, the church is holding a family party on Saturday from 6.30pm to 8pm.

"We are asking people to bring food and pumpkins with Christian symbols on them but as a concession we are asking them to leave any Halloween costumes at the door," said Mr Jones.

"Halloween was originally an ancient Christian festival, it was a time when we thanked God for those who have gone before us. This is our way of reclaiming it back."

The Bishop of Bradford, the Right Reverend David James, said: "Christianity has converted other Pagan festivals like Christmas and Easter into celebrations of love and life. Now some Churches are doing the same for Halloween. They are turning a dark night of mischief making and fear into a party for the Saints in Light."

Andrew Crabtree, one of the parishioners at Bingley Baptist Church who has helped to organise the party, said: "There will be lots of activities including food, singing, craft making and story telling."

It will take place at Eldwick Memorial Hall in Otley Road, Eldwick, on Saturday, from 6pm till 8pm. Another party will be held by All Saints in Ilkley at Church House in Church Street from 4pm to 6pm.