A MONTH long programme which explores the enduring appeal of the ghost story takes place this autumn.

Presented by Alchemy and The Leeds Library, in association with Ilkley Literature Festival and Leeds International Film Festival, The Haunting: Ghosts of Every Shade – delves into the perennial appeal of the ghost story with events taking place across Leeds and Ilkley from October 7 to November 7.

Internationally acclaimed writers Simon Armitage, Imtiaz Dharker, Rommi Smith and John Siddique explore the thrilling, chilling, reflective, sometimes probing studies of ghosts and hauntings through poetry, performance, visual arts, soundscape, dance, vocals and film. Live and online, The Haunting, includes nine free events, new commissions, performances, masterclasses, workshops and Ghostly Trails in The Leeds Library.

Nima Poovaya-Smith, Director of Alchemy said: “The Leeds Library provides a wonderfully historic setting in the heart of Leeds and an inspirational source of stories, through its diverse collections, for visitors. Experience Steve Manthorp’s exquisitely detailed and unsettling The Haunted Doll’s House, based on M.R. James’s classic ghost story of the same name and explore Adele Howitt’s ceramic series which responds to Edith Wharton’s quietly terrifying story, Pomegranate Seed. Both feature animation by Jack Lockhart. Enjoy Joe Williams’ recorded enactments of four ghost stories with soundscapes by Jonnie Khan. The Haunted Doll’s House and Pomegranate Seed are part of Ghostly Trails which includes a wealth of sketches, paintings and objects - reminders of the inevitability of death. Passers-by to The Library can enjoy a mesmerising array of images in a special window installation curated by Steve Manthorp. Visitors to The Haunting Digital Platform will find readings by Simon Armitage from his new commission, artists’ musing about their work and virtual exhibitions of work by Imtiaz Dharker and Steve Manthorp, providing online access to audiences near and far.”

Other highlights across the month include poetry masterclasses by Simon Armitage and Rommi Smith, enigmatic installations by artist Zareena Bano and a suitably spooky Halloween workshop.

The majority of events take place in The Leeds Library, 18 Commercial Street, with some events at Ilkley Literature Festival and a special film screening in Mill Hill Chapel, City Square, Leeds, LS1 5EB.

Events start on Friday, October 7 from 7.30pm to 9.15 p.m at the King's Hall, Ilkley. The Haunting: Ghosts of Every Shade is an evening of performances and readings of newly commissioned work by acclaimed, multiple-award winning poet, playwright and novelist Simon Armitage; Hedgebrook Fellow, poet, playwright and performer Rommi Smith accompanied by Dave Evans and Kenny Higgins; poet and essayist John Siddique and actor Joe Williams. Soundscapes by Jonnie Khan and installations of The Haunted Doll’s House by Steve Manthorp and Pomegranate Seed by Adele Howitt. Haunted cake available at interval. Tickets £12/£10. Email: boxoffice@ilkleyliteraturefestival.org.uk Tel:01943 816714

And as part of the month of events Mark Pajak, Apprentice Poet in Residence for Ilkley Literature Festival will lead a ghostly trail where people can discover the supernatural side of Ilkley with stories paired with chilling poetry; a tour of the town's landmarks and their macabre folklore.

For full programme details visit: www.alchemyanew.co.uk