Free pumpkin carving masterclass coming to Barton Grange

Award-winning pumpkin carver Simon McMinnis will be showcasing his spooktacular skills at a free Halloween event taking place at Barton Grange Garden Centre this month.

The Lancashire-based artist will be transforming pumpkins into works of art in the garden centre’s outdoor plant area on Sunday 26th & Monday 27th October.

From creepy ghouls to cute children’s cartoon characters, Simon produces incredibly detailed pumpkin carvings in all shapes and sizes. Some of the faces he has replicated include Lord Voldermort, Frankenstein, a Minion and Peppa Pig.

Blue Diamond Group Events Manager Rebecca Gurnett says: “Get ready to be wowed by Simon's magical pumpkin transformations!  Simon is always one of our most popular visitors and his extraordinary skills captivate audiences of all ages.

“It’s a great way to get into the Halloween spirit and hopefully the event will inspire everyone to be a little more creative with their own pumpkins this year!”

Simon’s intricate patterns and elaborate 3D designs take hours to create. He sells around 75 of the extremely lifelike sculptures each spooky season, and his work has been showcased on the BBC’s The One Show.

Visitors to Barton Grange can also buy their own white or orange pumpkins from the Farm Shop to recreate a little bit of Halloween magic at home.