Halloween has been cancelled in the nation’s most haunted village.

As Britain’s most haunted village Pluckley has a history of being invaded by hundreds of ghost-hunting revellers, causing vandalism and traffic chaos.

In past years residents have tried to turn the night of expected disturbance into family fun, set up by the parish council’s own Halloween committee.

But despite the festivities raising thousands of pounds for causes, such as the village hall, there was still vandalism, traffic problems and some anti-social behaviour.

Festivities were suspended last year and will not be reinstated this year.

A statement on the parish council website reads: “On 31 October 2009 there will be a large police presence in the village. There will be no entertainment provided for visitors. There will be no barbecue, no hog roast, no beer tent, no fun fair and there will be no ghost tours. In fact, unless you are coming for a quiet drink, may we suggest you visit one of the many other attractions in Kent for Halloween.”

Parish council clerk Jackie Grebby said previous organised events had caused problems.

She said: “We are not planning anything this year apart from inviting in the usual police presence. When we’ve tried to lay on something before it has backfired. The whole village has been gridlocked.

“There is in fact very little to do in Pluckley apart from have a quiet drink. People are very welcome if they just want to come for a quiet drink.”

Residents have been advised to keep their gates locked and any outside lights turned on until at least 2am in the morning to deter troublemakers.

Resident Kevin Hart said: “We seem to have special attention in Pluckley. They all go and get drunk in the pub and that sought of thing. We’ll hopefully be letting it pass by this year. Personally I’ve never seen a ghost here.”

Neighbourhood Sergeant Rachel McNeil said police were prepared for the extra influx of people Halloween is likely to bring.

She said: “Halloween is always a busy time across south Kent and we have plans in place to cope with the anticipated rise in demand and extra officers from the Neighbourhood Task Team and our Tutor Unit will be out on patrol to support our response teams and PCSOs.”

Those still wanting a spooky Pluckley experience will be able to get one the night before Halloween thanks to kmfm. The Frightday Night show will be broadcast from the village on Friday, October 30. To find out more or to get involved visit www.kmfm.co.uk