Halloween - Heaven or hell?

For many children, Halloween is a time for some fiendish fun, ghostly games and a chance to dress up. However there is a darker side as some older youths, under the guise of a Halloween trick or treat, throw in a bit of vandalism for good measure.

Research for Saga Home Insurance reveals that All Hallows' Eve can be an expensive night for some, with 1 in 7 (15%) having to shell out for damage caused by over enthusiastic tricksters. The average amount that is paid out is £117, but almost one in ten (7%) of those on the receiving end have to spend more than £250. Last October, Saga Home Insurance paid out in excess of £100,000 for malicious damage claims.

The most common ‘trick' is egg throwing, with 15% having endured this. Harmless, funny pranks (8%) and flour throwing (4%) are also common Halloween night tomfoolery. 3% of people say they have been victims of malicious or harmful "tricks".

Almost half (49%) of the UK population say they are unafraid of callers. However, 17% of the over 50's admit to drawing the curtains and pretending to be out. Men are no braver then women, with an equal number displaying this anxious behaviour. Unlike in the USA, where Halloween is a monster shindig, only one in ten Brits (10%) go out to a party, less than one in ten (8%) decorate their home and just 4% hold a bash.

A third (33%) of people are only happy to hand out treats to young children. Women are more generous than men, with almost a third (29%) indulging trick or treaters, compared to less than a fifth (18%) of men. 28% of people say they have never handed out any treats (again men are less generous: 33% vs 23% women).

Over 50s are not as enthusiastic about Halloween as those under 50, with 36% not celebrating it and never giving out treats compared to just 22% of the younger generation.

Andrew Goodsell, Chief Executive Saga adds ""For most people Halloween will end without incident - but for a few it may be an expensive night. So in addition to carving your pumpkin it may be worthwhile checking that your home insurance covers you in case the vandals strike."