I WRITE concerning the article on Hallowe'en and Pendle Hill. The word Hallowe'en comes from All Hallow's Eve, the evening before a religious holiday in medieval England that became known as All Saints Day. It was a time set aside by the church to commemorate saints.

The modern celebration of Hallowe'en, is more closely related to pagan customs that originated in ancient Europe. Druids believed the spirits of the dead returned to their former haunts during the night of October 31, so they lit torches and set out food for these unwelcome visitors. They did this out of fear, thinking they would be harmed if they didn't.

The Bible warns against all dabbling in the occult and preoccupation with witches and ghosts.

The Ribble Valley with Pendle Hill is an area of outstanding natural beauty, please do not let us desecrate it with such an unwelcome tourist attraction.

L JONES (Mrs).