CHILDREN were transformed into ghastly ghouls and spooky spectres with the help of a professional make-up artist.

Signals Media Arts Centre, which is based in Colchester, hosted the event over half term for youngsters ready to get into the spirit of Halloween.

The group were treated to the perfect preparation in time for their spooky parties.

The workshop was led by professional make-up artist Melanie Winning, who has worked for the BBC, DreamWorks, Disney, the Royal Opera House and the English National Theatre.

She is now providing workshops for the the V&A Education Department.

Melanie said: “We created zombies and lots of gory stuff.

“The children made their own designs and I showed them the techniques before letting them loose with the make-up.”

After their makeovers the children had lessons in lighting and camera work, before taking part in a spooky photoshoot. They picked up the techniques very quickly.

Melanie said they were pleased with their transformations and were excited to share the scary photos with their friends at the end of the session.