Hamleys staff at the Westgate Centre in Oxford have been getting in the mood for Halloween.
It’s a ‘Monster Mash’ this month including half term, as the staff team serves up spooks and surprises to keep customers entertained.
Until October 31, entertainers will be dressed to impress as Frankenstein, mummies and witches and customers are invited to dress up too to join the fun.
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Tricks and treats await at every corner, so get ready to take part in one of the best trick or treat hunts in the city.
A spokesman for Hamleys said: “When you’ve claimed your yummy treats, try your hand at The Wheel of Misfortune.
“And the scares don’t stop there - from Pumpkin Tossing and Witch Hat Ring Toss, to Hook-A-Bat, and there’s spook-alicious fun for everyone in The Ghoulish Games!
“From the weird to the wild, prepare yourself, and take a shot at The Beanboozled Wheel!
“While our world-famous entertainment team get you laughing and screaming, there will be giveaways and surprises for all the family; and that’s just for starters, so, grab your pumpkin bucket and get ready for the very best, spooky surprises at Hamleys.”
The Westgate branch of Hamleys opened in 2021.
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The September opening gave the centre a boost following coronavirus lockdowns.
The chain has about 16 branches in city centres and shopping centres - the closest being Swindon and Milton Keynes. It also has six airport shops.
Hamleys rich history began with William Hamley, a Cornishman from Bodmin, England.
Mr Hamley dreamed of opening the best toy shop in the world, which was realised when he opened his first shop at Holborn, London in 1760.
About 260 years later, Hamleys in Regent Street, London, which has seven floors, is a popular destination for families.
Hamleys’ retail experience includes opportunities for children to play and experience engaging store design, expertise in customer service and lively toy demonstrations.
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Extending much further than the famous London toy shop, Hamleys as a global brand is currently trading across 15 countries with 187 stores in countries including the UK, India, Japan, UAE, China and Russia among others.
In May 2019, Reliance Brands Limited marked its first international foray by acquiring Hamleys global operations.
RBL had been operating Hamleys’ India franchisee stores since 2010.
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This story was written by Andy Ffrench, he joined the team more than 20 years ago and now covers community news across Oxfordshire.
Get in touch with him by emailing: Andy.ffrench@newsquest.co.uk
Follow him on Twitter @OxMailAndyF
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