Halloween maze raises money for charity

The Halloween maze in Rushden features a number of spooky animatronics and displays

A Halloween-themed maze has been built to raise money to support adults with disabilities and learning difficulties.

The attraction, based in Rushden, Northamptonshire, was designed and partially built by users of the charity Support 4 Independence, which helps vulnerable adults aged 17 and above.

Visitors pay £2 and navigate through a series of horror-themed rooms filled with props and animatronic monsters.

Managing director Craig Atkin said: "There's three animatronics [the service users] have actually made from scratch, so they're really proud of them. We're ready to scare everyone."

Many of the mazes' ghoulish displays, including the smoke-breathing dragon, were imported from America, according to Craig Atkin

Support 4 Independence runs workshops and activities, including 3D printing, arts and crafts, and woodwork for its clients.

Creative support worker Laura Pritchett said building the maze gave service users a real sense of achievement.

"It makes them proud. They helped make the whole thing, and when they see people going through it, they think, 'We did that'," she said.

Ms Pritchett, who dresses in a Friday the 13th costume, brandishing a fake bloody machete when inside the maze, added: "It is pretty scary in there. You will be scared."

Money raised from the event will fund future community activities, including a Christmas maze featuring Santa and festive crafts.

The Halloween maze runs every Wednesday and Friday throughout October at 44 Park Road in Rushden.