IN the countdown to Halloween, Swindon-based brewery Arkell’s has brought back their popular pumpkin spiced ale.

The ale is brewed with real pumpkins prepared in the Brewhouse, with spices added to produced a warming malty beer.

The beverage will be available at most of Arkell’s pubs in Wiltshire and in neighbouring counties Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Hampshire - just look out for the bright orange pumpkin beer clip.

A mini-keg of the pumpkin spiced ale will be available to buy from the Grape Grain Warehouse at Arkell’s Brewery in Kingsdown.

Alex Arkell, head brewer at Arkell’s, has been working hard in the kitchen carving his pumpkins ready to be used in the ale.

He said: “We’re incredibly excited to be bringing back one of our favourite brews this year.

“It’s a lovely ale with a great aroma and it’s just perfect for a spooky night in or out. The pumpkin brings a degree of sweetness and we’ve spiced up our new brew with a mix of cinnamon and other spices to make a deliciously dark beer worthy of the time of year."

“It’s a time to celebrate the end of summer and harvest, and the beginning of those cosy winter months.”

This seasonal (trick or) treat has been created to mirror the origins of the event, which began in 1745.

Halloween came from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts.