THOUSANDS of brave residents visited Northfield Allotments for their inaugural Hallowe’en Pumpkin Trail last weekend.

Almost 2,000 people attended the event where plot holders at Northfields Allotments on Northfield Avenue in west Ealing opened up their gates to celebrate Hallowe’en for the first time on Saturday, October 29.

The pumpkin trail consisted of 150 carved pumpkins which led visitors through the allotments past witches’ grottos, scarecrows, cobwebs and many other spooky decorations.

The event was attended by Rupa Huq, MP for Ealing Central and Acton, and local councillors from both the Conservative and Labour parties.

Christina Fox, chairman of the Ealing Dean Allotment Society, said: “Our Halloween event was a fantastic success and we were delighted that almost 2,000 people from across Ealing were able to join us.

“It was a great opportunity for local residents to enjoy the many benefits that Northfields Allotments provide to the community.

“Northfields Allotments is an important historic site dating back to 1832 and a vital part of Ealing’s natural heritage.

“Everybody involved with the allotments is devastated that the landlord Pathways has designs to build on the site.

“Our Hallowe’en event has again demonstrated how important the allotment is to the community here in Ealing and how valued our green spaces are by those who live in this built-up part of west London.”

Among other ghoulish treats, there were tasty homemade cakes, plants and produce, as well as a barbeque, hot soup and mulled wine – there was a raffle, tombola and yucky dip too.

One visitor said: "It was really good, children and adults had lots of fun! People had put so much effort in to making it a lovely community affair. Well done to all involved!"

As darkness fell, the main path through the site was lit up with pumpkins.

A brave resident said: "We were so impressed with all the decorations and the cakes! Many thanks for all your efforts it was a great night!"

The plotholders at Northfields Allotments would like to thank the many Ealing-based businesses who supported the event, including Cheddar Deli, the Drapers Arms, the Forester, Limeyard, Love Handmade, Marks & Spencer, the New Inn, Sainsburys, Tesco, Tiger and Wilkinsons. 

Images courtesy of David Fox, with thanks