Fear to be taken out of Halloween (From Times Series)

Fear to be taken out of Halloween

5:05pm Thursday 18th October 2007

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Halloween night is a busy time for trick or treaters and for the special police patrols on the beat in Borehamwood.

Even though the festival at the end of the month is a time to dress up and have fun, the Borehamwood community team will be prepared for what happens when trick or treaters take their pranks a little too far.

Sergeant Nat Landau, from Hertfordshire Constabulary, said: "We will be running the Halloween patrols as usual in the evening this year and hope that everything works out well and we curb any antisocial behaviour that often happens on this night."

An event taking place at The Venue leisure centre, in Elstree Way, is being organised in conjunction with police to help keep antisocial behaviour to a minimum.

Fitness manager Jason Speller said: "We are holding an evening for kids in the xergaming' room. Xergaming was originally organised to help children with obesity problems as it is a great workout that requires a lot of energy but is designed to be fun.

"We have arcade-style interactive dance platforms, sports walls and X-Box pro stations so we invite all children from seven to 15 years to come along that evening to celebrate Halloween."

Youth crime reduction officer Susan Taylor said: "What we are trying to do this year is make sure children are diverted from antisocial behaviour on this night.

"It's a great opportunity for children in the area to come together when they may perhaps be tempted to go out and use trick or treating negatively."

A spooky surprise was also waiting for visitors to the Radlett Fish Bar this week, as children in the village celebrated Halloween early.

Owner Yelda Hancock has decorated the Watling Street shop with pumpkins, balloons and treats in preparation for the festival at the end of the month.

Police community support officer (PCSO) Adele Jenkins was on hand to help Ms Hancock and Radlett resident Miranda Quinney with face painting and masks.

Ms Hancock said: "I love Halloween, and I love to make children happy. It's all free, and if adults want their faces painted, then of course they can do it too.

"This is the second Halloween special event we have done and it's great to have our PCSO here to help."

Ms Jenkins said: "Radlett is a wonderful place to work and it's so nice to see businesses and residents working to bring the community together."

For more information on the Xergaming event, call The Venue on 020 8386 4044.

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