CHARD is hosting its annual 2024 Halloween trick or treat event this Thursday evening (October 31) in the town centre.

The town centre will subsequently be closed to all traffic from 5.30pm ready for the event - which will run from 6pm to 8pm.

The night will kick off with a special dance performance from the Kelly Leigh school of dance at 6.30pm, with a spooky disco following immediately afterwards, taking place outside the Chard Guildhall. 

There will be over 20 shops staying open late that night, ready to give out sweets to all trick-or-treating children, and a pumpkin carving competition will also be hosted outside the Guildhall.

A map of shops that will be taking part is available on the Town Teams Facebook page along with all up-to-date information.

The cost for the Halloween trick or treat event is the same as last year and wrist bands can be purchased for £2 each from: Tesco, Emery’s, Guildhall, Kelly Leigh & Chard CommuniTea Waffle House. 

You will need a wristband to take part in all the autumnal festivities on offer and the funds from this pay directly towards closing the roads and the purchase of all the sweets.

Cllr Jason Baker said: "this is a great event which helps to keep people safe and allows them to trick or treat without disturbing people in their homes.

"We look forward to seeing lots of people gathered in there Halloween costumes, all we ask is that you are Kind, Polite & Respectful to those retailers that are giving up their time and most of all we hope you all have a great night."