Charity pumpkin trail returns to Lutterworth village for fifth year this October
Get your carving kits and trainers ready: a village just outside Lutterworth is holding its fifth annual pumpkin trail, and the whole family is invited.
Phil Chambers, 38, is organising the special community event around Bitteswell to raise money for Rainbows Children’s Hospice.
The idea for the annual Halloween trail came after Phil wanted to get the village in the mood for the spooky season.
Phil said: “It’s a really fun, old-school community event… It’s just a no-nonsense village thing.”
Families and residents are encouraged to create a spooky scene outside their homes using whatever materials they have.
Phil explained: “Get all your rubbish out of the recycling bin and make a fun display.”
In 2025, around 700 people turned up to walk around Bitteswell and vote for their favourite displays.
This year’s theme is animals, after Phil put it to a public vote, but he stressed that the displays do not need to be scary or include pumpkins, despite the event title.
The trail has grown over the years and through word of mouth.
Phil explained: “It is brilliant seeing all the families getting involved.
“Especially these days, it’s important for families to do something creative that doesn’t cost a fortune.
“It’s not just for children; it’s for anyone who’s creative or needs a bit of an outlet.”
The chosen charity is close to Phil’s heart, who has promised to continue to fundraise for Rainbows.
He added: “I just wanted to pick a local family charity, and I couldn’t think of anything better than that.
“They will always get my money now because, as far as I’m concerned, what they do at that hospice is just unreal.”
People are invited to the Bitteswell Pumpkin Trail on Sunday, October 25, from 12pm.
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