STAFF at a Kidderminster arboretum will be carving up a special treat with their annual Halloween event.

Around 650 people are expected to attend each night of Bodenham Arboretum’s ‘Torchlit Pumpkin Walk’ which opens on Saturday (October 27) in Wolverley and runs for five nights through to Wednesday, October 31.

And, in preparation for the sell-out event, staff have 200 pumpkins that need to be carved all in time for the weekend.

The event, which is now in its fifth year, is a joint initiative hosted by Bodenham Arboretum and ‘The World Outside’ Forest School which is set within the woodland of the Arboretum.

Owner James Binnian said: “Autumn is arguably one of the best seasons for Bodenham.

“The colours are truly spectacular and they attract visitors far and wide, and then of course we end October with one of our most popular family events of the year – the Torchlit Pumpkin Walk!

“Tickets were sold out for the event before summer was out – so we think we have created something pretty special!”

The trail of torch lit pumpkins leads visitors around the Arboretum’s ‘Big Pool’ before returning to the Terrace outside the Visitor Centre.

Sandra Hill, founder of the ‘The World Outside’ Forest School added: “We never imagined the trail would grow from a one night event which attracted a couple of hundred people to the 5-night event it is today, with over 600 people per night attending.

“We are lucky in that we have managed to create something that appeals to parents and children, young and old alike.

“The illuminated, carved pumpkins are a delight to see around the Arboretum, whilst the terrace activities prove to be great fun for the children - we love it!”