If you fancy some chills and thrills this Hallowe’en, then a special Edgar Allan Poe themed evening at Irvine’s Harbour Arts Centre could be just for you.

New Ayrshire company Poetic Justice Productions are staging a night in celebration of the master of the macabre in Duncan’s Bar at the HAC.

Poe famously lived in Irvine as a youngster, following the death of his parents.

He was then looked after by successful Scottish merchant John Allen and spent some time living at Bridgegate House in Irvine and attending the burgh school at Kirkgatehead, before returning to the US to launch his career.

There will be a brief talk about Poe’s career, focusing on his time in Irvine, before the spooky fun begins.

The evening will feature dramatized readings of some of Poe’s best loved – and most haunting work – including The Raven, The Conqueror Worm, The Cask of Amontillado and more.

And there will also be a special excerpt from th e company’s forthcoming play The Gift Of God.

The work is a dramatisation of the Irvine witch trials, which saw four locals meet their doom 400 years ago.

More fun is planned for the night, including a horror-themed quiz, with prizes on offer.

Poetic Justice Productions are a community interest company focusing on local history, themed drama events for youngsters and bespoke events – with big plans already in hand for Irvine next year.

Tickets, priced £10, will include canapes and are available from Duncan’s at the HAC.