AS HALLOWE'EN approaches hundreds of Chorley youngsters will take to the streets 'trick or treat-ing' and dressing up in frightening face-masks and creepy costumes.

Yet, the original Pagan and Christian festivals of yesteryear have come to represent something different for today's children who seem more interested in making a few ponds and collecting as many sweets as possible.

So, in a bid to teach Chorley's multitude of blood-curdling kids the true meaning and traditions of Hallowe'en, The Citizen has put together its very own list of spine-tingling trivia and fearful facts . . .

The ancient Celtic fire festival called Samhain (pronounced 'Sow-in') is the origins of modern Hallowe'en.

The tradition of witches riding their broomsticks isn't just because they were the handiest flight objects available. The broomstick is symbolic of the magical powers of females since it is employed in the cleansing of ritual places.

Hallowe'en marks the modern witches' New Years Eve. It's a time spent celebrating death, fertility and renewal.

In Ireland, wealthy landlords used to distribute gifts of food to their poor tenants. When the potato crops failed, the Irish who moved to America are thought to have introduced Hallowe'en traditions to their new homeland.

In Mexico, Hallowe'en is known as Los Dias de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead). At this time of year the Monarch Butterflies, which have summered up north from America and Canada, return to Mexico. They are believed to bear the spirits of the dearly departed and are warmly welcomed home.

In days gone by, people feared the coming of Hallowe'en. They believed that the spirits who walked the Earth at this time were capable of possessing their bodies. To discourage them, they darkened their houses to make them appear as cold and unwelcome as possible. Donning all manners of frightening dress, they rowdily took to the streets in an attempt to scare the spirits off.

If you have a scary story or fearsome fact to tell us, drop us a line at The Citizen, 45-47 Pall Mall, Chorley. PR7 3LT.