A BUMP in the night

Walking into the spooky manor house, Carol knew something incredible was about to happen

- Christine Sutton

Dusk was giving way to darkness as Des steered the trusty old VW through the gates and up the driveway to Blackwood Hall.

‘The place looks even spookier by night,’ he said, gazing at the centuries-old manor house.

‘That’s what I love about it,’ Carol enthused. ‘It’s steeped in history and dripping with atmosphere. From the moment we went in that day, I sensed this was where we’d finally get a result. Get the cases, will you, darling? I’ll bring the camera.’

In the brightly lit entrance hall, all was calm. The middle-aged woman on reception looked up as they approached, smiling brightly.

‘Mr and Mrs Craig, welcome back.’

‘Thank you, Mel,’ Carol said, resting her elbows on the desk.

‘I was just saying how spooky this old pile looks by moonlight,’ Des commented, setting the cases down on the black and white tiled floor.

‘We do have our fair share of bumps in the night,’ Mel agreed, with a grin. ‘We’re not supposed to mention this, but some reckon Florence Nightingale walks the long corridor. Personally I’d be happier to see George Clooney drifting past my four-poster!’

‘Hear that, Des?’ Carol breathed. ‘Florence Nightingale! It makes sense, though. I did a bit of research after our first visit and Blackwood Hall was used as a convalescent home after the Crimean War.’