The Borders very own “Ghostbusting” outfit is bidding to unravel mysterious goings on at 18th century Kielder Castle, Northumberland.

Tales of strange apparitions have persisted for many years at the ex-hunting lodge of the Dukes of Northumberland, built in 1776. Now the “Grey Ladies” paranormal team have been granted special permission by the Forestry Commission to spend a spooky night in the building to coincide with Halloween.

The three-strong group, based in Kelso, will be accompanied by a medium, who will tune into any supernatural happenings. But they will also deploy an impressive armoury of hi-tech gear, including night vision cameras, electro-magnetic monitoring devices and digital camcorders and sound recorders.

Reputedly the castle is haunted by the Grey Lady, possibly a former Duchess of Northumberland, and a servant girl, Emma, who died of a broken heart when her lover was killed in the Boer War. Five years ago a physic investigator from Germany survived just 40 minutes on a planned sleep-over before abandoning his stay, spooked by a misty object and strange noise.

“We bring a healthy dose of scepticism to all our investigations” said Angela Chatterton, 36, who set up the group two years ago with Carole Colebrook and Nicola Lambert. “Most of what we experience can be explained, but sometimes we record something that defies logic.”

Just in case the spooks prove shy, the Forestry Commission will be hamming things up with a ghoulish house warming party at the castle on Saturday 27 October. A spine-tingling Halloween event has been conjured up for revellers of all ages, with hooded figures leading the way through the castle’s darkened rooms, each given a creepy make-over, including a spider’s lair and magic wood. Grizzly apparitions may even be lurking in the shady corners!

Walks are suitable for children and take place every ten minutes from 6pm. Places are limited and booking is required on 01434 250209.

Elsewhere there’ll be apple bobbin’, pumpkin and fancy dress competitions, face painting, storytelling, magician and a chance to spot ghosts in the castle grounds!

Ranger Malte Iden said:

“We hope we don’t bump into any real spooks, but even so our event is sure to raise the spirits. There is so much folklore about Kielder that imaginations soon run riot, with the owls hooting away in the background.”

Places cost £5 per person and hot food and refreshments will be available. More information on 01434 250209. Come in fancy dress and bring a pumpkin!

Note to editor

The Forestry Commission is the government department responsible in England for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woods and forests and increasing their value to society and the environment. Forestry makes a real contribution to sustainable development, providing social and environmental benefits arising from planting and managing attractive, as well as productive, woodlands. To find out more visit www.forestry.gov.uk

Media calls:

Richard Darn on 01226 246351. Mobile 0775 367 0038 or Malte Iden on 01434 250209.