GORY tours exploring the 'uglier and darker' side of town have been a hit with residents and tourists.

Helen Wearmouth set up Hidden Horrors Hexham in May, to share factual yet disturbing tales from the town's past.

Funeral celebrant Helen, from Hexham, is one of the town criers and hopes to grow the tours across various Northumberland towns.

Helen in action on a tour outside Hexham AbbeyHelen in action on a tour outside Hexham Abbey (Image: Hidden Horrors Hexham)

"Everything discussed on the tour is all factual. It has a gory, gruesome twist to it. I think we all enjoy revolting stories and by using this in the tours, they become more impressionable and memorable for the guests. It sticks in their minds what it was like in Hexham in the 1700s and 1800s."

As a funeral celebrant, Helen tells life stories and loves sharing tales. "Being able to do this in my home town ticks all the boxes - public speaking, sharing stories and showcasing Hexham," she said.

Hexham Abbey at dusk as seen on top of the Moot HallHexham Abbey at dusk as seen on top of the Moot Hall (Image: Hexham Town Council/Hexham Community Partnership)

Helen's tour starts at the town's Moot Hall and goes around the back of the Abbey, discussing the conditions in Hexham, the constant raids the town suffered and the grimmest jobs people worked hundreds of years ago.

The tour often stops for ice cream at Tyne Valley Ices before heading back up to the marketplace in a circular route, which takes approximately an hour.

A pit-stop at Tyne Valley IcesA pit-stop at Tyne Valley Ices (Image: Hidden Horrors Hexham)

"It's a very easy-going tour. We meet every Saturday at 3pm outside Moot Hall and do a midweek stroll at 6pm on Wednesday.

"I've had various people on the tour with different ailments, there's been a gentleman with Parkinson's and a lady with a walking stick, so it is accessible and there's no steps so we just take our time," Helen added.

"Being born and bred in Hexham, I'm proud of what Hexham is today, it's a beautiful town but we're shining a light on the uglier, darker past. History is a wonderful way to learn, so I'm showcasing Hexham as it is today, but going back in time and sharing the secrets of what Hexham was all about hundreds of years ago. I've had wonderful reviews so it seems to be popular with guests and residents."

Tickets cost £2 for under 16s and £8 for adults. For more information, contact hiddenhorrorshhh@gmail.com or 07796396192.