GHOSTBUSTERS are to descend on Samlesbury Hall for a Hallowe'en spook hunt.

Simon Entwistle, who conducts ghost tours across the country, is to host the fright night at the 14th century Tudor Manor on Saturday.

And the Clitheroe-based historian wants to hear from anyone who has sighted the White Lady, who is said to roam the grounds of the hall, or the ghost of William Harrison, who allegedly haunts the upper floors.

The White Lady was, in fact, Lady Dorothy, whose secret tryst with a dashing young man from nearby Hoghton Tower led to her shocking demise.

She was prevented from seeing her beau by her family, the Southworths of Samlesbury, who were strict Catholics. Unfortunately for Lady Dorothy, Hoghton Tower was a Protestant stronghold.

In the late 15th Century, Dorothy's brother murdered young Hoghton and she later committed suicide after being sent to a French nunnery. Simon said: "The image of a young woman in flowing white robes has been noted in many historical texts about Samlesbury Hall. There are many stories from people who have seen the ghosts, and on Saturday we'll be doing our best to get a sighting."

William Harrison, whose family owned the hall during the Victorian era, took his life with a gunshot and antique sellers based in the hall's upstairs rooms have described unexplained noises and visions thought to be his ghost. There has also been many a gruesome murder at the hall, including that of a Catholic priest discovered in a priest-hole.

Simon, who will dress in full Victorian regalia for the event, added: "Samlesbury Hall is the ideal setting for a night of storytelling. We'll have a roaring fire in the Great Banqueting Hall, dim the lights and, you never know, perhaps we'll even get the chance to see the White Lady or William Harrison for ourselves!"

Tickets for the event are priced £20 and includes supper.

Call Samlesbury Hall events manager Sharon Jones on 01254 812010, or Simon on 01200 426821.