As Halloween is approaching, black cats around Herefordshire are in for a spooky season. On Friday 13, we asked our readers to send photos of their beloved black felines, to appreciate them on the day that often affects them the most.

Along with the various connotations of the Friday date already existing, for many years, black cats have been subject to various superstitions. 

So much so that some rescue centres have said it takes longer to rehome black cats due to the ideas that exist about their personalities.

For centuries, people have avoided black cats on the date, with some believing that they bring bad luck and misfortune.

It has been believed by some that black cats are witches' helpers and are capable of inflicting various evils. 

Black cats have not had an easy time of it, in medieval times, they were also associated with death and disease, with many accusing the felines of spreading the plague. More recently, they are also seen as a symbol of Halloween.

Much like other dark-coated animals, such as crows and ravens, black cats have long been unfairly associated with bad luck. The origins of black cats and bad luck date back to the early 13th century, when Pope Gregory IX allegedly declared black cats as associates of the devil.

We wanted to showcase our reader's black cats this year, to show that our furry friends are not necessarily the evil Halloween spirits they're made out to be- but a loving family pet.

We were inundated with our readers charming photos of their spooky friends- with hundreds commenting several photos of their black cats, and recounting characteristics about their pet.

If you’re a fan of Halloween in the county, and want to be more at one with the witches, why not try some Broomstick agility trials? Visitors to Croft Castle near Leominster in can challenge friends and family to a broomstick agility race or take on the paranormal investigator trail hunting for ghosts this half term. These seasonal events are included in the admission price. Free for National Trust members and family tickets for £37.50 (adults £15, children £7.50).

If you want to continue the Halloween festivities, Eastnor Castle just outside Ledbury are bringing a Halloween trail around the grounds and visitors can explore what is behind the creaky doors of the ‘cackling castle’!

Tickets must be pre-booked and the trail will be open between Sunday, October 27 to Thursday, October 31.

Tom and Neo enjoy time together on their pinic bench.Tom and Neo enjoy time together on their pinic bench. (Image: Tasmin Reeves) Gizmo enjoys playing in his cardboard box.Gizmo enjoys playing in his cardboard box. (Image: Emma Dyke) Reggie, enjoying outdoor life in Herefordshire.Reggie, enjoying outdoor life in Herefordshire. (Image: Lissy Nadine) Ted relaxing in his garden shrubbery. Ted relaxing in his garden shrubbery. (Image: CJ Dallow) Mr Meowgli spending time near his house plants.Mr Meowgli spending time near his house plants. (Image: Rachel Griffiths) Nacho's owner has described him as a nightmare!Nacho's owner has described him as a nightmare! (Image: Steph Hampton) Billy, dressed up in his finery. Billy, dressed up in his finery. (Image: Victoria Dudley) Origami, who is a three-legged cat.Origami, who is a three-legged cat. (Image: Steph Hampton) Tim's owner says he is well-known in the Newton Farm area of Hereford.Tim's owner says he is well-known in the Newton Farm area of Hereford. (Image: Annie Thomas) Kitten, Olive, who has piercing blue eyes.Kitten, Olive, who has piercing blue eyes. (Image: Em Sandford) Pookie and Grottie, enjoying their time on the sofa.Pookie and Grottie, enjoying their time on the sofa. (Image: Dawn Hobbs) Misty and Nova playing together.Misty and Nova playing together. (Image: Chloe Boyd)