Things went bump in the night when Hartlepool-based group Old Haunts camped out at the town's Borough Hall.

And more than 20 fellow ghost-hunters joined them to see if they could catch a glimpse of any ghouls.

The spine-chilling night was one of three vigils organised this year in which the group will explore prominent locations.

Sheila Dignen, one of the members of Old Haunts, said the night at the town's Borough Hall was a "huge success".

She said: "As far as I know this is the first time the Borough Hall has been investigated and there was something there.

"Everyone seemed to enjoy the night and we had a big mix of people. Some experienced and some beginners.

"People were a bit nervous beforehand but they got into the spirit and it was a good night.

"There was definitely activity that is worth investigating further and we plan to go back to the hall in the future."

During the event the group took part in spooky activities, including a seance and ouija boards and two mediums joined the group. Sheila added: "We heard footsteps and we saw orbs. And there were some names that came out in the seance that we will be investigating further to see if they have anything to do with the history of the building.

"There was a lot of activity in the old mayor's room and we heard some strange noises."

The group are now looking forward to the coming events to see what else is in store.

A second vigil will be held at the Town Hall Theatre, Raby Road, on Saturday, April 12, and third will be held at the White Horse community centre in Eden Lane, Peterlee on Friday, June 13.Old Haunts is also looking forward to revisiting the Heugh Battery, on the Headland, in May, as members believe recent restoration work may have unearthed new spirits.

For more information contact Andrea on 07711 994550, Sheila on 07738 873275 or visit www.oldhaunts.co.uk