Halloween window displays are coming under fire following fears that the gory costumes and props on show at Hollywood Fancy Dress & Party Store in Poole could ‘terrify’ children.
Local street preacher Rev Elaine Glover has called for a ban on what she believes to be a ‘terrifying and demonic’ display, in the window of the popular seaside fancy dress store.
This year’s window features a blood-soaked clown holding a knife, a dog baring its teeth and various models featuring demons and intestines.
“I have never liked Halloween because I’m a Christian but I realise everybody has their own views and values. If people want to go into the shops and buy these things it is up to them,” Elaine stated.
“My problem is that these window displays can be seen by everyone, including young children who are likely to be terrified. It seems to get worse every year. It is very graphic and just too much. This has affected me badly and I feel I must speak out about it.”
Elaine said she believes these scary items should be restricted based on age.
“When you buy or rent a CD or go to the cinema it has an age rating on its content, yet with this shop window there’s nothing to stop the exposure of its violent and dark content upon the passer by. It’s simply horrible.”
The interview with Elaine ran in a local newspaper and attracted over 80 below-the-line comments defending the window display, which remains firmly in situ.
