A QUIET corner of York will be taken over by zombies and other creatures of the dark when a haunted house opens tonight.

The purpose built house, in St Nicholas Way in Wigginton, is a castle-like structure with spooky-themed rooms and corridors. It will be home to a ghoulish collection of live actors and animatronics, all performing to synchronised music and special lighting to raise funds for the city’s St Leonard’s Hospice.

Sarah Atkinson, community fundraiser at St Leonard’s Hospice, said: "Thank to Steve and his friends, the Halloween Haunted House promises to be a fun-packed and scary experience. Do go and support it – and help to raise money for the Hospice as you enjoy the thrills."

The Haunted House is the idea of Steve Hagan, who said: "We want people who are unafraid to enter Hell’s Domain and meet their impending doom. We certainly have all the ingredients for Hallow-screams."

The haunted house will open its doors to the public between 4.30pm and 9.30pm tonight and tomorrow. Entry is free, and donations on exit will all go towards the work of St Leonard’s Hospice. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.