Filming at Readwood Stables. A previously unpublished image.

When witches and warlocks were out in force around Read at the weekend at Readwood Riding School's annual Hallow-e'en barbecue, five dressed-up demons were joined by a real practising witch. The witch was known as Lois, and was a surprise guest at the event when she arrived with Colne historian Edgar Peel. She refused to reveal her full name or address but admitted to being a practising witch. Mr Richard Atkinson, of Readwood, said: "We didn't know she was coming, but Mr Peel brought her along as a surprise."

About 40 pupils from the riding school made an eerie sight at the barbecue parading in the firelight on horseback. And a competition to find the "champion witch" was won by 14-year-old Jennifer Sutcliffe, of Burnley as the sinister Old Mother Demdike in a black garb.

This is one event Readwood will have on record for posterity, because the BBC cameras were there to film the night's happenings. They are intended to add the final touch to the BBC's documentary on the Witches of Pendle, which is to be screened on BBC 2 in the spring. Mr Atkinson said it had been one of the best Hallow'e'en events they had staged, and added: "George Green, the producer of the film, said the whole event had far exceeded his expectations. He was pleased with the costumes and everything." Mr Peel, who is to be the film's narrator, presented a prize to the champion witch. He was assisted by another local writer - Pat Southern. About 350 people attended the barbecue.