A DORSET Echo is joining volunteers to brave a spooky night out at Nothe Fort for charity.

Ghosts, ghouls and all manner of things that go bump in the night will be sharing the fort with the volunteers who will be sleeping rough for homelessness charity Alabare Christian Care on March 4.

The fort is famous with ghost hunters and paranormal investigators and is supposed to be one of the most haunted venues in the UK. Visitors have reported seeing a ghostly figure walking around the passageways under the fort whistling.

But staff and ex-veterans at Alabare said that they are prepared to take on the ghosts in the name of a good cause.

Support worker Emma Williams-Mandiville said: “I’m quite nervous about the ghosts. I’ve never seen one yet but you never know. It will be quite creepy sleeping out anyway in the fort, but if I see any white shapes floating about I shall probably wake everyone up with my screaming.”

She added: “We will have to tell ghost stories before bedtime just to really wind everyone up.

“Everyone will have to bring a Dorset ghost story.”

Nothe Fort workers always say good morning and good night to a second female ghost that is meant to haunt the cafeteria. Nothe Fort director David Joy said that although he does not personally believe in ghosts, he had heard a few noises.

He said: “We are quite popular as a paranormal venue and we have quite a few groups who come and do investigations. There are people that believe there are ghosts here. You do hear noises, but I don’t believe in ghosts myself.”

Mr Joy said that the weather conditions would be more likely to cause a sleepless night. He said: “It could be really rough on the night because it can be very exposed. If it’s cold and wet, it won’t be an easy evening. We are really happy to be involved.

“It’s for a good cause. The money is going to be used locally. Alabare is a relatively small charity and we wanted to assist then.

“The fort is a big part of the community and should be used by the community and this is an opportunity to work alongside a community organisation.” Alabare provides care and support for homeless veterans and has recently opened two houses in Weymouth.

So far more than 10 people are signed up for the event, including a Dorset Echo team, but more are needed.

Anyone wanting to get involved can sign up at Alabare’s website at alabare.co.uk or call contact fundraiser Tony Richmond on 01722 322929.