>I didn't read the site as saying that celebrating Halloween was an alien tradition over here - just the "trick & treat" thing

OK. I agree about the trick or treating bit. Those words were never used. We just used to go round in costume to the neighbours but it was mainly parties with bobbing for apples and stuff. I remember making papier mache witches and turnip (as previously discussed) lanterns. Around that time there would be children carrying around various "Guys" all dressed up, requesting a "penny for the Guy", so between them and the carol singers a few weeks later, no-one really tried to ask for money. I'm not sure about guizing, the kids seem to do a poem or tell a joke here, one even turned up with a violin and played quite well, I don't know how traditional a part of guizing that is.

I'm glad to see that Wellingborough is as lively as ever. I'll be sending Mr Capital Kiwi a pair of ear plugs. He is to bonfire night (fortnight) what Scrooge is to Christmas!