MURDER, mayhem and monstrous goings-on have been thrilling and chilling audiences at a Barnard Castle school.

Pupils at Barnard Castle Preparatory School performed their end-of-term production, The Murder at the Hotel Crumhorn, to packed houses.

Ghouls, ghosts and werewolves trod the boards along with vampires, skeletons and mad professors as dastardly deeds were played out to music in a sinister hotel.

Headteacher Ted Haslam said: "The standard of the performances by the children was outstanding.

"The comedy timing they showed was exceptional and I'm grateful to everyone involved."