MR Hall, as pastor of the Northwich Christian Fellowship, I feel very strong about current attitudes with the people of Vale Royal regarding the October 31 festivities, ie Hallowe'en.

Do the people realise that this very dangerous practice has its origins within witchcraft?

My main reason for writing is not just to point out the above, but the practice of intelligent parents allowing their children to participate in 'trick or treat'. I find this astounding after last week on British television there was a documentary on the most dangerous man in England, who is at present incarcerated in Nottingham jail for the heinous crime of sexually molesting and the killing of young children. I feel the possible dangers of 'trick or treat' are as follows:

Children as young as six wandering around the district knocking on strangers' doors asking for sweets.

As a pastor, I have many elderly people in my congregation who find this horrible practice very disturbing and therefore at this time of year they have to lock themselves away, owing to the fact that this practice frightens them. With regard to the elderly being frightened there is possible health risks, which in 1999 is not acceptable.

Also, I have contacted other church ministers in the region to find out their feelings.

I would like you as my MP to take this matter up in the House of Parliament on my behalf. I would also like to know new Labours' position on the subject.

REV ROSS RENNIE

Northwich Christian

Fellowship

(Pentecostal Church).

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