Rev Jonathan Campbell, of Newbuildings Independent Methodist Church, has launched an online petition calling on Derry City Council to ban the Banks of the Foyle Halloween festival - widely regarded as the biggest festival of its kind in Europe and a massive genaerator of revenue for the local economy - because it makes " evil look innocent."

"Christians believe that evil is a real but defeated power," he says. "Halloween, however, is about evil triumphant, therefore it is a distortion of reality.The carnival brings a curse upon the city."
The petition, available to sign online at www.ipetitions.com/petition/carnival/, calls upon "Derry City Council to stop the annual Banks of the Foyle Halloween Carnival which makes evil look innocent. The word of God clearly prohibits any involvement in or support for the occult - Leviticus 19:31 'Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I am the LORD your God.' "

The petition further reads: "In light of the warnings of scripture, we call upon DCC to scrap the Carnival. It makes evil look innocent and glorifies that which the word of God strongly condemns. It encourages people to get involved in Satanism and brings a curse upon the city. Families are encouraged to be a part of the carnival. Little children are being led astray.

"We have heard reports of people having sex openly in the streets during and after the parade. These are the reasons why we cannot stand by and do nothing."

Rev Campbell adds: "Christians believe that evil is a real but defeated power. Halloween, however, is about evil triumphant, therefore it is a distortion of reality.

""Halloween can also breed an unhealthy interest in the occult, which leads to emotional, mental and spiritual distress. This is confirmed by child psychologists who are dealing with increasing numbers of disturbed children."

A spokeswoman for Derry City Council says the local authority believes "an exchange of views across a wide range of issues regarding Halloween is a useful exercise".

"The Council has an events team in place to ensure that the annual Banks of the Foyle Halloween Carnival celebrations is a success for the city. The main focus of our celebrations is on the family and a range of activities have been programmed specifically for families.

"The Council works closely with a number of agencies to promote the Carnival Care message which encourages everyone to enjoy Halloween safely and sensibly", she said