When people think of witches, it is easy to get lost in the stigmas that are readily accepted by the mainstream.

As these modern day fables would suggest, witches are old ladies with warts on their noses, covered in saggy green skin and ride brooms into the night sky while cackling all the way to their local shop for a new supply of frogs - or something along those lines.

Like any stigma or negative representation of a minority group, there is a truth concealed within and with witches, Paganism, Wicca and the like, this is certainly the case.

Those writers and academics that are interested in the practises of all that is witch' say membership is steadily growing, attracting all sorts of ages and creeds, male and female. And if you want any proof that this is really the case, then you need look no further than outside your own front door - for the witches are coming to Croydon.

Witchfest is the largest indoor gathering of witches in the world.

The re-emergence of the witches in Croydon will be an interesting, though undoubtedly peaceful and happy one.

This event will include stall-upon-stall of weird and wonderfuls - incense-making, wands and daggers, tarot cards, books and mediaeval dresses.

There will be talks from highly respected individuals such as Professor Ronald Hutton, the leading academic on witchcraft, Inbaal, the psychic pin-up' from Sky's Psychic Interactive and Kate West, author of the Real Witches' book series.

Music on offer will include the angelic, dulcet tones of the Mediaeval Baebes, flute and vocal eeriness from Carolyn Hillyer and Nigel Shaw and popular Goth Rock from Inkubus Sukkubus, as well many other strong supporting acts other miscellaneous attractions.

So, as children begin their trick or treating antics for Halloween, there is not a more apt time of year to get involved and rediscover the true meaning behind these activities. Go along and experience the reality for yourself.

Witchfest
Saturday, November 4, 10am-12am, £23
020 8688 9291
fairfield.co.uk