Ready for Halloween? This north Essex pumpkin patch certainly is

A pumpkin patch in north Essex has made sure it is fully prepared for Halloween later this month with a bumper haul of the seasonal fruit.

Owners Emily and Gary French, of Foxes Farm Produce, even have spooky style pumpkins dubbed “Pumpkinsteins” – which have eerie designs etched into them ahead of the big day – at their farm in Aldham, near Colchester.

The pair, who are pumpkin and Christmas tree farmers from Essex, set up their first pumpkin farm in Basildon last year, and at the start of this year they purchased their secon in Colchester.

Traditional jack-o’-lanterns, edible squash and multi-coloured pumpkins are just some of the varieties currently growing on the farm.

Ms French said: “It seems to be really popular, especially with children who love to pick their own pumpkins and get into the spirit of Halloween.

“We’ve got thousands growing on our patch at the moment and kids can play games such as pumpkin bowling, noughts and crosses and many more.

“It’s quite a unique project but we’ve had a lot of interest.”

The farm, based at Foxes House, Foxes Lane, Colchester, opens at weekends and during half term.

Visit Foxes Farmp website for more information.