GIANT ghosts lead a scarily-good line-up of ghouls for this year's Halloween celebrations in Inverclyde.

Organisers of the fourth annual Galoshans Festival have unveiled this year's programme for people of all ages to celebrate the most terrifying time of the year.

Greenock-based creative skills charity, RIG Arts, has taken over the reins of the 2018 event, which takes place on October 26, 27 and 28 at a variety of venues in the town.

There will be exhibitions, live theatre and music, a party in Cathcart Square and a showpiece parade through the streets with the 'Galoshans Giants'.

Greenock artist, Karen Patton Orr, from RIG, said: "This year's festival is a partnership, a festival made by the community for the local community. "We're delighted to have received Creative Scotland funding and support from Inverclyde Council and the Beacon Arts Centre to make it happen. "There is so much talent and history here to showcase and make the most of. "We want to encourage everyone to take part, from local businesses creating window displays to artists showcasing their work and families enjoying the parade."

The 2018 festival kicks off next Friday with the opening of contemporary art exhibition, 'When Two Worlds Meet', at the RIG studio in Greenock's historic Tobacco Warehouse, which is accessible via the entrance on Haig Street, followed by 'Frankenstein: A Radio Play' at the Beacon from 8pm.

On Saturday October 27 the build-up to the parade begins at the 'Ginger the Horse' statue on Cathcart Street at 5.30pm where there will be street performers, music and props before the procession heads along towards the square where there will be a performance of Galoshans play, 'Surge', at 6.20pm followed by a Halloween party.

Former Love and Money frontman, James Grant, will headline a live music showcase in the Mid Kirk from 7pm, the Beacon will welcome 'The Macbeths' - a critically-acclaimed dark and powerful play inspired by the Shakespeare classic - on stage at 8pm.

Monthly music night 'Blow Up' returns to The Broomhill Tavern for a special Halloween party, also from 8pm until late and the Galoshans programme will end with a special service in the Mid Kirk from 11am on Sunday October 28.

Festival organiser Karen said: "We don't want anyone to miss out on the fun. "The festival is bursting with events and activities for all ages."

For listings visit the Galoshans Festival 2018 Facebook page.

Brochures will also be available next week from RIG Arts and the Beacon.