Richard happy to get back on the trail of the city’s ghosts
HIS POPULAR WALKS START AGAIN THIS WEEK AFTER SIX MONTHS
A DERBY TV presenter says he is thrilled to be bringing back his ghost walks to Derby after being forced out of work for the past six months.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic Richard Felix has been unable to host his regular spooky walks around Derby city centre and surrounding areas.
The walks see the former Most Haunted TV star tell groups of visitors about famous Derby ghost stories linking them to the city’s history and culture.
His walks go to some of Derby’s most historic venues such as the Derby Gaol, Friar Gate as well as under the Guildhall clock and the Derby fishmarket.
And after recently speaking to council bosses and Derbyshire police, Mr Felix has been given the go-ahead to continue his walks provided they follow Government guidelines.
For now, however, they will be outside walks only so people can stay safe and socially distanced.
Mr Felix told the Derby Telegraph he can still do the walks provided there are just groups of six or less, be two metres apart from each other and wear face coverings.
The next walk takes place on Wednesday, starting at the Market Place from 7pm. Tickets cost £15 per head.
He said: “I’ve not done any since March, obviously, but I’ve brought them back now that the restrictions have eased to some extent. I’ve spoken to the council and police just to make sure and they have said as a business it is OK as long as the groups have no more than six people.
“But this time I am doing them outdoors. Usually we go to the pubs and go in cellars and attics, but this will be more of an outdoor experience for now.
“I’m very pleased to be bringing the walks back. I’ve missed it terribly - it’s been my job and my pride and joy for 28 years.” And for those who, understandably, may feel nervous about going outside in groups at the momentMr Felix said he has created a virtual experience for people to enjoy at home.
“Because of the difficult times we are having, I have created an audio/ video virtual ghost walk in Derby which is incredible,” he added.
“You download it on your device and it takes you all around Derby with images and reenactment videos of history.
“People are loving it – it’s so good it needs an award.”
Details of Richard Felix’s ghost walks can be found on his website www.richard-felix.co.uk.
Mr Felix was asked why his ghost walks were so popular.
He replied: “Firstly, there is a fascination for ghosts and the supernatural, but secondly because I tie in ghosts with history.
“And at the end of every ghost walk people go away saying ‘I never knew that, I never realised that happened in Derby’.”
I’m very pleased to be bringing the walks back. I’ve missed it terribly
Richard Felix