Have a spooktacular Hallowe’en at New Lanark

Now the once-abandoned, eerie mill buildings and workers tenements have been brought back to life after a massive restoration project which has won the village the coveted status of a United Nations World Heritage Site.

Although, by the early Seventies, almost all the original village population had departed, there was one ‘resident’ who reputedly remained - the ghost of millgirl Mary.

Now she has risen from the grave once more to help New Lanark boost its tourist trade this autumn with a ‘Spooktacular’ Hallowe’en day of events on Saturday, October 31.

Instead of scaring visitors away, Mary and the team at the village’s Development Trust will be hoping to attract thrill-seekers in their droves.

Explained Ruth Beattie, New Lanark Learning Officer: “During the day children will be able to enjoy Hallowe’en-themed crafts and games within our gift shop, which will be transformed into a spooky cellar for the day.

“There will also be a storyteller with plenty of Hallowe’en tales and a photo competition for the best costume. Entrance is £3 per child, or £1.50 with a New Lanark Visitor Centre ticket with the activities running from noon to 5pm.

“We run craft workshops for kids throughout the year, so we’re really excited to be planning some crafts especially for Hallowe’en.

“Kids will be able to make and take home their own pumpkin, skull and ghost masks as well as taking part in fun games like Broomstick Races and Pin the Hat on the Witch.”

After sunset, there’s a series of spooky tours of the village conducted by the ‘ghost’ of millworker Mary, relating local superstitions and some of the history of the village.

Evelyn Whitelaw, New Lanark Events Officer, said: “Thousands lived and worked in New Lanark over the past 200 years so who knows who you may meet on one of the spooky tours!”

Tour details are available from www.newlanark.org or call 01555 661345.