Around 400 witches, warlocks, werewolves, ghouls and ghosts met at the witching hour to mark Swindon Screams2, and the special guest was John Altman, Nick Cotton from Eastenders.

Contrary to his nasty TV persona, John happily entered into the spirit of Halloween, helping organiser Luke Skywalker entertain the ghoulish hordes, posing with the guests and signing photos by Shoot Me Photography, before co-hosting the charity auction in aid of Goldenhar Charity.

John was one of original cast of the long running TV series Eastenders, but in February last year he was killed off.

John said: "Thanks to the people of Swindon I have risen from the dead for Halloween, and I am really glad to be here. It is a nice break from writing my autobiography and singing with the all girl rock band Joan of Arc.''

Skywalkers Promotions, based in Faringdon Road, Swindon, was inspired by Luke's passion for Star Wars.

"I started by buying one costume and I now have 100 professional outfits, plus props that I lend out to TV companies and for exhibitions, and thousands of fancy dress costumes,'' said Luke. "And I do things like Swindon Screams, I want to give parties for Swindon people and see the smile on the children's faces when I have done a good job.''

There were plenty of smiles at the Halloween Party which had the Charlie Anne Band performing, Rob Barrow doing his Elvis Presley tribute and Dj John Garland from Skywalkers mobile disco, getting the witches' coverns up and dancing.

There was magic in the air, and on the ground as three professional magicians performed their wizardry, the popcorn machine proved very popular with the little ones and the bar resembled a Star Wars scene with Darth Vader and a Storm Trooper mixing happily with Iron Man and Predator, all portrayed by members of Skywalkers Crew.

The auction and raffle, with some amazing prizes such as Freddie Kruger's hat signed by Robert Englund, a trip on a luxury yacht and an original storyboard from the Empire Strikes Back, were organised by Alan Holmes from Holmes Music.

Luke said: "We are delighted to announce that the auction raised £1,700 for our chosen charity, Goldenhar.''

For the young ones there was some creative face painting, cuddly toy stall and yummy donuts in the enclosed garden.

Other unusual guests mingling with the crowds were Freddie Kruger, with his electric handshake, and the Abominable Snowman.