‘Kids have already suffered enough – this just adds to list’
ROCHDALIANS have hit out at a new rule banning trick or treating in the borough this Halloween.
The government has confirmed that the region’s strict local restrictions prevent groups from going door to door as it counts as households mixing, which is currently not allowed.
Now, many Rochdale residents have said that children have “suffered enough” with many still planning to take them out, as per tradition.
Commenting on our Facebook page, Jenni-Lea Monks said: “Kids have already suffered enough this year and this is just another thing to add to the list.
“My kids love Halloween and trick or treating.
“Why not let those that want to do it and those that don’t agree with it then just don’t do it. The kids are in classes of 30 which doesn’t seem to be a problem, even parks are open where kids are all touching the same equipment so what’s the difference in trick or treating it’s becoming an absolute joke now.”
Donna Ryan said: “It’s not fair the kids are the ones missing out again.”
Others have said they don’t see the difference between trick or treating and the postman or delivery driver coming to the front door.
Kimberley Doody said: “You order a takeaway at 11pm, the driver, hands you your food you hand them money, how is trick or treating any different?
“It’s okay to mix with people in a pub or restaurant but not knock on someone’s door - our children’s childhoods are being taken away from them.”
Some have figured out a way to still make Halloween fun for children - Tabby Pyall said: “The great pumpkin trail has been started for everyone to join in where people put pictures of pumpkin in window and kids go looking for them and the parents give their own kids a sweet for every pumpkin they see, just like the rainbows for the NHS.”
Another innovative parent, Helen Whitehead said: “My daughter is doing a trick or treat treasure hunt around the house, it’s a shame but it’s not worth the risk, and there’s lots of things to do with the kids if you look online.”
However, many people have given their backing to the new rule.
Sharon Hayward said: “Every year for as long as I can remember I have given every Halloween night to children knocking on my door.
“I’m sorry to say this year I will be putting a sign up on my door as I don’t want anyone knocking this year I know it’s sad and I have grandchildren who won’t be going this year.” One person has pointed out that some elderly people may be relieved at the rules.
Christopher Henstock: “Not the end of the world, is it? There will be elderly and vulnerable people not wanting people rocking up on their doorsteps.
“My lad can go without a few sweets.”
Downing Street insists that the rules are ‘clear’ that people living under the rules cannot mix.
However, people will only face a fine if they step inside someone’s home which could incur a £200 penalty.
People living in areas unlike Rochdale - where there are no local lockdown restrictions will still be allowed to go trick or treating, but in groups of no more than than five, to keep within the ‘rule of six.’