Have you got a ghost story?

In the lead up to Halloween, Alex Tipping, the innkeeper at The Fountain Inn in Ashurst, has told the County Times about his ghostly experiences.

“I have heard a lot of stories from locals about Old Jake who is supposed to haunt this place,” said Alex.

It is said that a customer saw a man with his dog sitting by the inglenook fireplace. As the customer collected his drink from the bar he turned around to find the man and his pet had both disappeared. Upon questioning the bar staff about the vanished man, the barman pointed to a painting on the wall that was of the deceased gentleman he had just witnessed.

“Over the weekends I stay here quite often and when I’m on my own after hours the doors crack open and close on their own, but there’s no ventilation anywhere.”

To read more about Alex’s experiences and other local accounts across the South Downs, pick up this week’s County Times out Halloween, Thursday October 31.

If you have encountered a spooky spectre, share your creepy story with us on the website or email simon,[email protected]