THE Forest of Dean and Wye Valley Earth Mysteries Group will be starting their Hallowe'en celebrations early, as they spend an evening on the subject of the ancient pagan festival that was previously known as Samhain.

The event takes place at the Courtfield Arms, Lower Lydbrook on Thursday (October 4) at 7.30pm, and admission is free.

In addition to the talks and discussions on Samhain/Hallowe'en, there is also to be a book swap and sale – and the organisers have asked anyone attending to bring along their unwanted books to sell or exchange for others.

The EMG is organised by the Wyedean Pagan and Wiccan Society, and the event is celebrating its tenth year this year, prompting a call for all previous members of the Society to attend and celebrate a decade of public meetings – which have now ben held at at a total of six different venues.

Further information, and directions to the event, are available on 0776 531 4223.