A CHURCH is holding an anti-Hallowe'en party in a bid to encourage youngsters to stop celebrating 'evil and badness'.

St Gabriel's Church, Whalley New Road, Blackburn, is basing a party on light and sharing.

Dressed in brightly coloured outfits, children will play party games and join in organised activities.

Each child has been asked to take a packet of sweets which will be handed in to organisers who will then distribute them to the whole group.

Organiser Susan Witts, a children's work adviser for the Blackburn Diocese education department said: "Hallowe'en has overtaken celebrations for All Souls Day and All Saints Day.

"What we are trying to do is celebrate these religious days and move away from the evil and badness associated with Hallowe'en.

"We are also trying to encourage the children from knocking on doors and begging for treats by coming to an organised party and getting them to share their sweets with other children.

"Sharing is one of the most basic Christian principles and the whole theme is about giving rather than taking.

"There will be singing and music and instead of being dressed in dark Hallowe'en outfits they have been asked to come in really bright clothes. It really is not safe to go Trick or Treating and we hope that we are showing them that they can still have fun in a safe and positive way."

Mrs Witts said this was the first time she had organised a "bright party" but schools across East Lancashire had already been in touch to see if they could hold a similar party - instead of their usual Hallowe'en celebrations - next year.

In 835, Pope Gregory IV moved the celebration for all the martyrs (later all saints) from May 13 to November 1.

The night before became known as All Hallows Eve or "holy evening." The name was shortened to Hallowe'en and on November 2 the Church celebrates All Souls Day.

The purpose of these feasts is to remember those who have died, whether they are officially recognised by the Church as saints or not.

The Dean of Blackburn, the Very Reverend Christopher Armstrong, added: "Hallowe'en is a good religious festival and a time to give thanks for the lives of those who have departed.

"It would seem that as with all good things, the true meaning of Hallowe'en has been exploited to the point it has almost been lost.

"I would welcome any event that celebrates the true meaning behind Hallowe'en and keeps our youngsters safe while still having fun."