A GROUP of businesses have banded together to host a spooky Halloween ball for a local charity.

Chameleon Costumes, located on the Springwood Industrial Estate, Nonna’s, a mobile pizza van and the Stock Street Farm Barn in Coggeshall are hosting a haunted barn dance in aid of PARC (Essex).

Andy Farrow, who owns Chameleon Costumes with his wife Amanda, said: “We just thought it would be a nice idea to try and raise from money for Parc in a slightly different way.

“It is something we all put together. Obviously Michael owns the Stock Street Barn which is the obvious venue for it, Nonna’s can provide the food and we can provide costumes.”

There will be a disco, scary photo booth and karaoke to keep people entertained.

The price includes two drinks tokens and either a homemade Nonna’s pizza, or food from the grill.

Everyone is encouraged to dress up, with Chameleon Costumes offering a percentage of costume rentals as extra donations to PARC, who were the obvious choice of charity to support.

Mr Farrow said: “When we set up the business five and a half years ago we wanted to choose a local charity to support and we chose PARC.

“We help them out with events and things, it is lovely because we see what is going on and help out where we can because they are so close to us.”

A spokesman for PARC (Essex) said: “We are thrilled to be the chosen Charity by Andy from Chameleon Costumes,the Stock Street Barn and Nonna's for their Haunted Barn Dance.

“Without the kindness and time of people like them we would not be able to keep our specialist play centre running to help the over 500 families that currently rely on us.

“We would like to thank all those involved in organising what looks to be an amazing night at Stock Street Farm.”

The event takes place between 8pm and 1am on November 5 at the Stock Street Barn in Coggeshall.

Braintree taxi companies Fargo and The Taxi Man are also running a special return deal from Braintree for just £25 for a four seater or £30 for an eight seater.

Tickets cost £25 for adults and £20 for children over 12.

They can be purchased from any of the three businesses, from the PARC centre or by calling 01376 619143.