FANS of thrills and spills are being invited to delve deep into the dark and grisly history of Colchester this Halloween.

The Dark - the Ultimate Scare Experience is a new interactive fright experience which will arrive at Rollerworld next month.

For the unique event the business has teamed up with The Paranormal Emporium, an investigation team headed by Professor Jesse Hawkins.

Revellers will be guided by Pro Hawkins on a tour through the infamous and terrifying activity documented over Colchester's bloody history, including its connections to the Romans and Witchfinder General Matthew Hopkins.

A spokesman for Rollerworld said: "With such a bloody history it is no wonder there are so many recorded cases of paranormal activity all over this historic town.

"Witchcraft, hangings, and murder have all left their gruesome mark.

"Now we invite you to experience the terror of those who have seen for themselves the ghosts, mysterious happenings and deep, dark secrets that haunt this otherwise beautiful Essex town.

"Are you brave enough to encounter such legends as James Parnell, Alice Mellor and the Colchester Witches after dark, with nothing more than a single torch?"

Pro Hawkins has hosted hundreds of paranormal investigations in haunted hot spots such as the infamous Red Lion Hotel, in High Street.

During the investigation, he will lead teams of up to eight to make their way through the mazy rooms of the Moorside attraction in a bid to make it out safely.

The event takes place in almost complete darkness and is not suitable for anyone under 14 or those who are squeamish, claustrophobic, frail, pregnant or faint-hearted.

Mobile phones are strictly prohibited and must be stored in a locker before your team sets off.

The Dark runs between October 18 and Halloween itself, with several slots available per evening.

Tickets cost £15 per person, or £120 to book a private slot for up to eight people.

Visit rollerworld.co.uk/the-dark to book or find out more.