Emma Jane Unsworth

It’s almost Halloween, and what better way to celebrate than gathering round the fire (or pub table) to share a spooky tale or two? Delve into Mancunian folklore and you’ll discover that our fair city isn’t short of foul spirits - from poltergeists to the devil himself. Here’s a look at some of the scariest. Read on if you dare. Back Pool FoldThis is a tiny cut-through off Cross Street, not far from the Royal Exchange. Legend has it that the devil was spotted here during the 19th century, in the depths of winter, revealing himself to startled Victorians as they went about their Christmas business. Ever the cavalier prankster, he often assumed the guise of a goat, and enjoyed terrifying onlookers by walking vertically up the sides of buildings, leaving coal-coloured hoof-prints in the snow. Albert HallOwned by Trof, this ornate music venue on Peter Street was built as a Methodist Church hall in 1910 and is located above what used to be Brannigans (of 'drinking, dancing and cavorting' fame). There were many reports of poltergeist activity here during the 20th century - so much so that the crew from 'Most Haunted' investigated in 2003. One of the entities said to roam the bar is Reverend Samuel Collier, a Methodist minister sporting a long black cloak. The TV crew also reported hearing the sound of a screaming baby in the tower. St Ann's Church Fancy playing a cool game to summon the dead? Course you do. Well, next time you’re in St Ann’s Square, walk anti-clockwise (or 'widders