A GHOSTLY tour of the Haining Estate is on offer this Halloween - in aid of two local charities.

Those brave enough to sign up for the tour on Friday, October 20 will hear about the Selkirk estate's sinister history from guide, John Nichol.

Money raised from the tour will be split between the Haining Volunteers group who are carrying out a series of major improvements to the estate, as well as Borders youth sports charity, the Rowan Boland Memorial Trust.

And it is hoped the tours could become a regular feature at the Haining.

John said: "We have already held a few ghost walks at the Haining and they have proved very popular.

"The Haining has a unique atmosphere, and, when darkness falls, the ghosts and strange creatures of the past lurk in the shadows.

"If the tours continue to prove popular, it is something we would consider holding more frequently to raise funds for our work on the Estate.

"This tour is also a chance to raise money for the Rowan Boland Memorial Trust, another very worthwhile cause."

Many ghosts are associated with the historic estate and its secret warren of tunnels.

More recent generations regularly report sightings of the mysterious White Lady wandering around the loch.

Kenny Paterson of the Rowan Boland Memorial Trust, said: "The committee has talked about setting up a ghost tour for a number of months and we are delighted the Haining Volunteers are putting on this walk.

"While it may be a hell-raising evening, those on the tour will also be raising funds for two excellent local causes.

"The Trust raises money for young people in the Borders to help them progress in their chosen sports, with previous grant recipients including Sammi Kinghorn, who won two golds in the World Para Athletics Championships this year."

The Haining ghost tour begins at 8pm.

Price for the tour is £15 per person which includes stovies and a drink afterwards and, if travelling from Galashiels, transport from the Fountain is available at 7.30pm sharp. The tour is not suitable for children under 14 years of age.

To book a ticket contact Kenny Paterson on email kppaterson@yahoo.co.uk or phone/text 07913767871.