GHOULISH thrillseekers will be glad to hear that York Maze’s Hallowscream event has been named as the best in the UK at an awards ceremony to celebrate all things scary.

The site was named as one of the country’s top ‘scream parks’ at the annual Scarecon awards at Alton Towers.

Tom Pearcy, from York Maze, said staff were delighted to collect their award at the prizegiving ceremony.

He added: “We are delighted to be named as the UK’s best scream park. It takes a massive effort by a huge team to stage Hallowscream each year.

“I’d particularly like to thank my team here at York Maze, but we couldn’t do it without the support of many local businesses who help build Hallowscream each year, and of course the fantastic actors who bring the whole event to life.”

He thanked fans of the event, some of whom he said return every year to experience the five live-action haunted house attractions. In 2017 the venue added a new haunted house and stage show. And this year the team have enlisted American artist Stuart Smith to redesign one of the mock houses using 3D artwork - one of the latest trends in American haunted house decoration.

Organisers said Stuart is a world-leader in UV and 3D effects, who is also known for his work airbrushing laser tag arenas and carnival dark rides.

York Maze Hallowscream runs on selected nights from October 12 to November 3 between 6.30pm and 11.30pm.

Tickets, costing £20, must be booked in advance. Refreshments are also available in a central entertainment zone.