Summer Droughts Threaten Halloween Pumpkin Harvest Across England

Severe summer droughts in England threaten to ruin Halloween with a major pumpkin shortage and stunted crops.

English growers warn that harsh summer droughts have severely impacted this year's squash yields, leading to smaller pumpkins and potential shortages before Halloween. Farmers suggest decorating alternative vegetables with painted faces as festive supplies dwindle. The poor harvest figures point to what could be the worst growing season on record for the seasonal gourds.

• The warningFarmers have described the growing season as horrendous due to extreme lack of water.
• The alternativeGrowers suggest painting faces on smaller gourds instead of traditional carving.