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Tag: ghosts

  • A Magical Evening with A Christmas Carol in Sheffield

    The weather was miserable, very apt and in the spirit with Ebenezer scrooge himself. The beautifully ornate Upper Chapel in Sheffield was the setting for the annual reading of A Christmas Carol. Charles Dickens beloved Christmas tale about a cold-hearted miser who despises Christmas. His redemption by visits from the ghost of Jacob Marley and the ghosts of Christmas past, present and yet to come has become a defining tale of the Christmas holiday. The story published in London in 1843 sees the protagonist transformed into a kinder gentler man. A Christmas Carol has never been out of print and has been translated into several languages, the story has been adapted many times for film, opera, and other media.

    The Upper Chapel.

    The Upper Chapel in Sheffield, is a Utarian meeting place. The Chapel is a Grade II listed building and was founded in 1660 by the vicar of Sheffield, The Reverend James Fisher. After walking through the portico, you are faced with the beautiful vestibule with a tablet on the wall depicts the history of the Chapel. Through the double wooden doors, the serenity overwhelms you, the smell of the wooden pews and the silence leaves you feeling relaxed and peaceful. People are milling about and offering refreshments of hot drinks and mince pies. While everyone seats themselves and the lights go dim. The Dickens Fellowship (Sheffield Branch) introduces the evening, Patrick Smith will present the reading. The fairy lights are twinkling around the Chapel and around the Pulpit. A lone Christmas tree stands by the alter. Patrick strikes a match and lights a candle, signaling the start of the evening.

    Marley was Dead.

    And so it began, Patrick said the opening words… Marley was dead. Patrick’s tone and pace, and pause were perfect throughout, waiting for the appropriate placed giggling from the 100+ audience. During the first half of the monologue, I found myself transfixed, drawn into the story, the atmosphere, the sounds. As if I was the only one in the room. Scrooge met the spirit of Jacob Marley who warned him of the upcoming visit of the three spirits and as the clock strikes midnight the ghost of Christmas past and without any explanation he is whisked away on a journey through Scrooges earlier life. Scrooge is transported back in time reliving his past and reflecting on his mistakes and regrets. Patrick stops and gently blows out the candle; the lights are switched back on. I am brought out of my Dickens trance, and everyone mingles through to the refreshments. Tea, coffee, and mince pies served by friendly members of the Chapel and The Dickens Fellowship. There is an option to donate to the Homeless & Rootless at Christmas (HARC) charity, a seasonal charity that opens its doors each Christmas to provide a safe, warm day shelter for homeless, rootless, and vulnerable people in Sheffield. Over the festive period they offer hot meals, warm clothing, friendly company, and essential wellbeing services- during what can be the coldest and loneliest time of the year.

    The Remaining Spirits Make an Entrance.

    Patrick reappears, the candle is re-lit, and the lights go low. Time for the second spirit, the ghost of Christmas present takes Scrooge to see the happiness and joy of those around him, including his nephew and his own employees. Everyone was hanging on the words of Patrick and the story of Tiny Tim. Finally, the spirit of Christmas yet to come appears to Scrooge and shows him the consequences of his actions and the bleak future that awaits him if he does not change his ways. Each ghost plays a critical role in Scrooges transformation, and their visits leave a lasting impact on him. The story of Scrooge serves as a reminder of the power of redemption and the importance of spreading love and kindness towards each other, especially during the holiday season.

    Patrick blows the candle out for the last time and the audience breaks into a round of applause. Thank you from the fellowship and we all filter into the cold December air. The evening felt lighter after hearing a heart-warming, even romanticised story of Dickensian Christmas.

    A magnificent, thought-provoking performance from Patrick and The Dickens Fellowship (Sheffield Branch), set in the atmospheric Upper Chapel. A wonderful evening for all ages in a grand setting.

    Kayleigh Northall.

    Just Pootling Along.

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  • Exploring Staveley Hall: A Paranormal Investigation

    Kayleigh Northall

    Ghost hunting at Staveley Hall with MJL Paranormal. Cr: MJL Paranormal.

    By Kayleigh Northall.

    MJL Paranormal is a dedicated team of ghost hunters who approach their investigations with a scientific point of view.

    The group, primarily composed of family members, was formed out of a shared interest in the paranormal. Michael, James, and Lisa, along with Keith, have been enthusiastic about exploring haunted locations for over 20 years.

    Their investigations are known for being fluid and adaptable, allowing them to cover different sites and gather comprehensive evidence.

    MJL Paranormal’s approach sets them apart from other groups that tend to be more structured. They aim to uncover the truth behind paranormal activities by using various equipment and techniques. Their dedication to the field has led them to numerous haunted locations, including the infamous Staveley Hall.

     MJL Paranormal continues to explore the unknown, leaving no stone unturned in their quest to understand the supernatural. The group continues to explore haunted locations in the Derbyshire area, inviting the public to have their own experiences.

    Contact: https://mjlparanormal.co.uk/

    Kayleigh Northall

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  • Local single mum of two, hosts charity Halloween spectacular.

    Kayleigh Northall

    Dawn Cook and Elliot Cook raising funds for Weston Park cancer charity in Chesterfield using the power of the spooky season. Cr: Kayleigh Northall.

    By Kayleigh Northall.

    Dawn Cook and her son, Elliot, are hosting a haunted house event in Chesterfield. Raising funds for the local Weston Park cancer charity.

    Dawn’s family have been through the nightmare of a cancer diagnosis, and she wants to give back to the cancer centre that helped during that time.

    From Halloween for four days and nights they have decorated their garden and house in an Addams family theme, welcoming all ages to come and have fun.

    Elliot loves dressing up each year. He was Lurch this year, scaring people who thought he was a mannequin.

    Local people and companies donated their time, sweets, and goodie bags to help Dawn and Elliot to make the event bigger and brighter.

    They are both hoping that next year will surpass this year with an undead theme and will be for a different local charity.

    Kayleigh Northall

    Just another WordPress site

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  • Discover Matlock’s Haunted Mill and Crafty Ghosts

    On a beautiful spring morning during the Easter weekend, I went on a hunt. It was not an egg hunt, as you would expect, but on a ghost hunt.

    Driving through the peak district fills me with serenity at the best of times. Still, today I’m on a journey to find a little hidden gem.

    Cromford in Derbyshire.

    Cr: Kayleigh Northall.

    Meandering through Matlock and on through the high-cliffed valley of Matlock Bath you arrive at a village called Cromford. find more information about Cromford and the surrounding area https://visitpeakdistrict.com/locations/cromford

    The Birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

    Cromford famous for its mills and it’s connection to Richard Arkwright. Cromford is known as the cradle or birthplace of the industrial revolution.

    Via Gellia Mill, built by Richard Arkwright.

    Cr: Kayleigh Northall.

    This area of Derbyshire is known for its cotton mills. The industry is long gone but the structures still continue. Some of the buildings have been adapted into museums, some stand empty, vulnerable to the elements. Most of the mills have been split into smaller units and repurposed into smaller industries. Ironically, this can be seen as an extension to the cottage industry which the mills and industrial revolution decimated.

    Via Gellia mill, Cromford. Cr: Kayleigh Northall.

    The building is said to be as haunted as the ghostly creations inside. The mill has seen centuries of history. It was originally a cotton mill built by Richard Arkwright in the late 18th century. In 1890, Hollins & Company took over the mill. They began producing the famous Viyella fabric. This fabric is a blend of wool and cotton. Many people have walked the wooden floors. Creaks are said to be heard in places where no living person has tread. As producing cotton was a heavy manual labour industry which famously had child labours, fatalities and industrial accidents were prevalent. Deaths would occur in the mills; some would say leaving an imprint on the fabric of the building. The spirits of some have remained and you feel their presence in this shop.

    In the old Via Gellia Mill, there is a ramp at the side of the mill pond. Up this ramp lies the Matlock Ghost Emporium of Spirits and Secrets.

    Little Shop of Cute Horrors.

    A quaint little shop which sells handcrafted apparitions, shelf after shelf and row after row of ghosts all different creations. No two are alike.

    Matlock Ghost Emporium

    Cr: Kayleigh Northall.

    Picking your ghost to take home is a daunting challenge. You are faced with hundreds of little ghosts. They all want to find a home with you. I refused to look at their website. I wanted to find one that I felt an affinity with. That was a task, like walking through a dog adoption facility. I wanted to give them all a home. 

    A Myriad of Spooks and Spectres.

    I scanned the shelves, only glancing at first to see if I relate to any of the hauntings. I realised I was overwhelmed by the choice. It was akin to standing in a forest looking for a tree. Bookshelves full of little ghosts, some friendly, some not, stare out at you. Whilst you study them, you get the overwhelming feeling that they are studying you. On my second round of the little emporium, I found my spook to give a home. I wanted one that embodied or disembodied me. As a lover of books, reading, and writing, I searched for that perfect match. Staring at me was a pastel-coloured ghost with glasses and it was reading a book, perfect.

    After picking her out from the rest, I was ushered to the ghost’s photography studio. I positioned my new housemate in the scene and took my photos. This was a cute idea made up by the keeper of the apparitions.

    Photography shoot for my ghost.

    Cr: Kayleigh Northall.

    Possession of a Shy Kind.

    I was then asked if I wanted to get my ghost possessed in the S.H.A.D.E machine, spectral holding and displacement equipment. A perfectly decorated machine in which I placed my new friend and closed the door. I pressed the cog, and lights came on and spooky noises were heard coming from the machine. The colour of the light denotes what spectre I have to take home. Blue is a shy ghost. She is my possession. Maybe over time, she will come out of her shell and feel comfortable around me.

    The gift wrapping was perfect for the setting. It featured a snuggly box sealed with wax and a complimentary ghost holding an easter egg for Easter. I also received an information leaflet about my ghost, telling me all about her. The shop also has a reward scheme, collect the stamps and get a free ghost. The whole experience was fun, warm, and welcoming, the staff were friendly and knowledgeable about their creations.

    Walking back outside, I was transported from the world of whimsical and fun, back into the current day. Walking back through the mill towards the car park, I found myself smiling. I was slightly embracing the inner child in myself.

    Back home. My new housemate has been introduced to the rest of the family. She has found her space on a shelf in my living room. Hopefully she won’t be shy for long. After the fantastic journey I went on, I know she won’t be lonely for long. I am already planning my next trip.

    How to Find your Very Own Ghost.

    Find your spooky friend at Matlock Ghost Emporium, a worthwhile and fun experience. If you can’t visit the emporium please visit http://matlockghostemporium.com or look them up on Facebook, Instagram or Threads and read the story behind this collection of apparitions.

    http://matlockghostemporium.com

    Kayleigh Northall
    ★

    Just pootling along.

    Kayleigh x

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  • THE HISTORY OF HALLOWEEN AND ALL THINGS SPOOKY.

    HALLOWEEN

    The history of Halloween, from around the world. all things spooky from witches, ghosts, ghouls, skeletons, pumpkins, turnips, and black cats.

    Halloween is a celebration with deep historical roots, blending Celtic, Roman, and various cultural traditions. It involves customs like dressing up, trick-or-treating, and honouring the dead. Symbols like jack-o-lanterns, black cats, and witches are integral to the festivities, which vary around the world.

    “Pumpkin Halloween” by Christa Lind/ CC0 1.0


    Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, has origins in Celtic traditions. The Celts worshiped nature and gods, including Samhain, the god of the dead. They believed Samhain controlled spirits, allowing them to rest or go wild on October 31st. The festival for Samhain lasted three days, with people parading in animal costumes.
    The Romans invaded Britain. They brought their customs, including All Saints’ Day on November 1st. This day was later known as Hallowmas or All Hallows. This day honoured saints, and November 2nd became All Souls’ Day to honour the dead. Over time, these holidays merged into Halloween.

    The History of the Jack O’Lantern.


    Irish customs included collecting food and money for St. Columbus Kill and begging for soul cakes in exchange for blessings. Fairies were believed to be around on Halloween, and offerings were left for them. Irish and Scottish immigrants in America continued these customs, with boys causing mischief and households bribing them with treats.
    The legend of Jack, who tricked Satan and carried a burning ember in a turnip, evolved into the modern jack-o-lantern. This tale originates from Irish folklore. Jack, a notorious trickster, managed to deceive Satan multiple times, ensuring that his soul would not be claimed by hell. Nevertheless, when Jack died, he was denied entry into heaven due to his deceitful nature. He was left to wander the earth. Only a burning ember inside a hollowed-out turnip lit his way. In mid-19th century New York, children dressed as ragamuffins and begged for pennies on Thanksgiving, later shifting to Halloween.

    Photo by Charles Parker on Pexels.com

    How Halloween is Celebrated Internationally.


    Halloween is celebrated differently around the world. In India, Diwali is marked with candles and lamps. Austria and Bavaria commemorate All Souls’ Week. In South America, Halloween traditions vary by country, while Mexico celebrates Los Dias de Los Muertos with picnics in cemeteries. In Brazil, Halloween is called “Dia das Bruxas” (Day of the Witches). People celebrate with costume parties. They also take part in various events. In Argentina, Halloween is gaining popularity, especially among younger generations, with costume parties and trick-or-treating becoming more common. In Chile, Halloween is celebrated with costume parties, haunted houses, and trick-or-treating, particularly in urban areas. In Peru, Halloween is celebrated alongside the traditional “Día de la Canción Criolla” (Day of the Creole Song). People enjoy costume parties and various events. In Wales, Halloween is Nos Galen-gaeof, and Finland has its version of “Jack.” In Japan, Halloween has become increasingly popular, with people dressing up in costumes and participating in parades and parties. In the Philippines, Halloween is celebrated with Pangangaluluwa. Children go door-to-door singing. They ask for prayers for the souls of the dead.

    “Pumpkins branches ground lit candles“/ CC0 1.0

    The Icons of Halloween.


    Halloween also involves games and rituals to foretell the future. Witches, believed to gather on All Hallows Eve, have been linked to Halloween for centuries. Legends of witches spread to North America, mixing with Native American and African beliefs. The church and civil courts created hysteria around witches, leading to executions.
    Symbols of Halloween include black cats, skeletons, ghouls, banshees, and will-o’-the-wisps. Black cats were believed to be people transformed by evil magic. Skeletons represent the dead, and ghouls were grave robbers. Banshees, ancestral spirits, warned of death, appearing in various forms and emitting a terrifying wail. Will-o’-the-wisps enticed victims in swamp areas.

    “Cartoon ghost png illustration, transparent“/ CC0 1.0


    The spooky tales of witches and the playful mischief of trick-or-treating make Halloween special. The honouring of ancestors is another cherished aspect. Halloween continues to be a beloved and evolving tradition. It brings people together in celebration of the mysterious and the macabre.

    Just pootling along.
    Kayleigh x

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  • Exploring the Unknown: The Fascination of Ghost Hunting

    Exploring the Unknown: The Fascination of Ghost Hunting

    In recent years, ghost hunting has captivated the imagination of thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts alike, offering a unique blend of mystery, history and the unexplained. Armed with an array of gadgets and a sense of adventure, ghost hunters embark on quests to investigate haunted locations, seeking evidence.

    What drives individuals to delve into the unknown? For many it is a quest for answers beyond the grave, fuelled by curiosity about the afterlife and a desire to connect with the unknown. Some are drawn by individual experiences or the allure of finding the truth about historic sites steeped in legend and folklore.

    Ghost hunting techniques vary, ranging from traditional methods like seances and Ouija boards to modern technology such as electromagnetic field (EMF) detectors, infrared cameras, and voice recorders. These tools are employed to capture anomalies like EVPs (electronic voice phenomena), temperature fluctuations and apparitions, offering a potential glimpse into the supernatural.

    The pursuit of the paranormal is not without controversy, sceptics argue that much of the evidence gathered by ghost hunters can be attributed to natural phenomena, psychological factors, or technological glitches. Critics caution against the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

    Despite scepticism, the popularity of ghost hunting continues to grow, fuelled by television shows, documentaries, and social media. These platforms not only entertain but also provide a platform for enthusiasts to share their findings, theories, and encounters with fellow believers.

    For many, ghost hunting is not just a hobby but a deeply personal journey – an opportunity to confront fears, challenge perceptions and explore the mysteries of existence. Whether one is a true believer, a sceptic or simply curious, the allure of the unknown continues to beckon, inviting us to ponder the possibility that perhaps, just perhaps there are forces beyond our understanding lurking in the shadows.

    Kayleigh Northall

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