THOUSANDS of people got into the spooky spirit this weekend ahead of Hallowe’en.

Sites across Gwent attracted hosts of families dressed as ghosts, witches and monsters wanting to take part in scary and fun activities.

A fireworks display was put on at Chepstow Racecourse on Saturday which amazed and dazzled the audience.

Executive director Phil Bell said:“The racecourse is very much part of the local community and this event really does have a great local and homely feel.

“We love seeing familiar faces at the racecourse.”

Visitors also enjoyed a range of activities with fun fair rides, face painting, a magician, side shows, bars with a variety of warming food and drink.

Mum-of-two Leanne Pritchard, who lives in Cwmbran, said she and her children went to the event dressed as witches.

“My daughters have recently been reading Roald Dahl’s The Witches,” said Mrs Pritchard. “Then they wanted to come here as some of the witches.

“It was a fun event and my one daughter loved making giant bubbles.

“The best bit was the fireworks. It was impressive.”

Andy Cole was also at the fireworks display and described it as “amazing”.

“I was there with my family and the fireworks were amazing,” said the 42-year-old.

“The fireworks last year were good but this year’s were even better.

“I was saying to my wife that it seemed more busy this year than last year. That isn’t a surprise because of last year’s success.”

Other Hallowe’en events held across the weekend included one at The Cwmbran Centre, where fun and ghoulish games were held. Activities included a children’s entertainment area, zombie craft activities and face painting.

Tredegar House put on a pumpkin-carving session too. People were able to pick their own pumpkin and practice pumpkin-carving skills.