Should trick-or-treating on Halloween be cancelled in Northampton this year?

Trick-or-treating on Halloween is one of the highlights of the year for many families in Northampton but should it be going ahead this year because of coronavirus?

The idea of big groups of children dressed as ghouls and skeletons may be out of the question but legally people could still go out in sixes or fewer.

But households sharing sweets with others and the prospect of more crowds pose potential risks of spreading the virus.

While some may feel awkward about refusing kids at the door, who may also get upset - and what if it gets cancelled and newly-bought outfits go to waste?

A regular Halloween supporter from Northampton, who wishes to remain anonymous, told the Chronicle & Echo: "Clearly this involves a lot of people milling around, sometimes children queue up the garden path!

"We always support this and spend a fortune on confectionery but we've decided it would be best to stay in and keep the door closed this year because of covid, the rise in infection rates and my age!

"I'm concerned about parents spending a lot of money on outfits for children who are then not welcomed as they would expect to be.

"As well as some children reacting badly to disappointment and closed doors because, of course, they don't understand the situation.

"A clear message to everyone from the Government would help with confusion and mixed messages."

However, many families will want to continue the tradition and have a bit of fun with their children in a year full of anxiety.

One suggestion for enjoying the festivity responsibly is to just give out sweets to your own kids as you around, maybe every time you see a pumpkin or decoration, or do it all virtually?

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