A Wantage pub is preparing to let down its drawbridge when it transforms itself into a haunted castle for Halloween.

For the second year running, a huge facade, complete with Gothic arches, leaded windows and a drawbridge, will cover the front of the Swan, in Market Place, for the pub's Huge Halloween Party on Friday. The 20ft facade was secretly constructed over two weeks last year and put up to the amazement of punters and shoppers.

Pictured in costume are, from left, barman Steve Farmer and joint landlords Craig Gradwell and Russell Pope. Mr Pope said: "This is one of those ideas we brought back from the US with us.

“We used to live in Key West and Halloween in the Florida Keys is more like Mardi Gras. All the stores and bars used to go to extraordinary lengths to decorate their buildings."

Mr Pope said he had spent more than £2,000 on specially-made face masks for all the bar staff, doormen and band for the party. Rock band Electric Head will play in full skeleton outfits. Tickets, costing £7, are available from the pub. Fancy dress is essential.