The free community event, organised by Banbury BID, saw decorated pumpkins displayed in shopfronts across the town centre for families to enjoy during the half-term holiday.

Nearly 350 entries were received for Banbury's annual Halloween Pumpkin Trail, which saw decorated pumpkins displayed in shopfronts across the town centre.

Banbury BID pumpkin trail winners Evie and Casper with their prizes. | Banbury BID

placeholder image — Banbury BID pumpkin trail winners Evie and Casper with their prizes. | Banbury BID

The free community event, organised by Banbury Business Improvement District (BID), ran from October 19 to 31 and gave families an activity to enjoy during the half-term holiday.

Pupils from ten local schools and nurseries created the pumpkins, which were displayed in high street businesses for visitors to find as they followed the trail.

The participating schools and nurseries were St Leonard’s, Cherry Fields, Hanwell, Hornton, Hardwick, Orchard Fields, Bishop Loveday, Harriers, Frank Wise and Child First Nursery.

Three winners have now been announced, with Darcie receiving an £80 gift voucher for The Entertainer, Evie winning four tickets to Room on the Broom at The Mill Arts Centre, and Casper receiving a £25 Waterstones voucher.

Ollie Phipps, from Banbury BID, said: “We are absolutely thrilled by the incredible turnout this year.

“Seeing nearly 350 families exploring our town centre is exactly what community spirit is all about.

“A huge congratulations to all our winners and a massive thank you to everyone who joined in.”

Banbury BID also thanked ThomFong for designing the trail sheets.