Council urges everyone to stay safe this Hallowe'en in Bedford and remember the rule of six

Bedford Borough Council is encouraging people to celebrate Hallowe'en safely, helping to save lives by preventing the spread of the coronavirus.

Although Bedford is currently at the Government's medium alert level, which means gatherings inside and out of up to six people are allowed, local cases are rising with Bedford recording 14 new cases and one death.And the Government is advising against trick or treating this year to help reduce the spread of coronavirus.

The council has come up with some safer ways to enjoy Hallowe'en which have been suggested by residents:

Pumpkin Carving - carving and decorating pumpkins with members of your household and displaying them in the house or garden

Pumpkin Trail - go for a walk with your household and see how many pumpkins and decorations you can spot in your neighbourhood

Hallowe'en Scavenger Hunt - Hallowe'en themed hunt around the house or garden

Online Fancy Dress - Hallowe'en costume competition using zoom or Skype with friends and family

Spooky Cake Baking - maybe some spider cupcakes or Frankenstein gingerbread

Design a Scary Pumpkin or Ghost - get creative and draw or colour in a spooky picture

Watch a Scary Movie - A Hallowe'en movie night with your household

Cllr Louise Jackson, portfolio holder for health and wellbeing, said: “Thank you to everyone for your continued efforts in helping to control the spread of the virus. We all want our lives to get back to normal, but now is not the time to be complacent.

“Please continue to play your part this Hallowe'en - we are urging families to take part in lower risk activities, such as pumpkin carving, displaying spooky pictures or choosing your favourite Hallowe'en music, helping to minimise the risk of spreading coronavirus to others.”