TELEVISION ghosthunter Derek Acorah is coming to York to make contact with its spookiest citizens.

Paranormal expert Acorah and his presenters, Danniella Westbrook and Angus Purden, will be broadcasting live from the most haunted sites in the city as part of his Living TV show, Ghost Towns Live.

They will be unearthing stories and secrets from York's past, performing live investigations and allowing people at home to witness paranormal phenomena as it happens.

The team have selected the city because of its amazing history, and tales of brutal and gruesome crimes, horrific murders and ancient persecution.

A spokeswoman for Ghost Towns Live said: "York's violent and unruly past is perhaps the reason for so much spiritual unrest. It is said to be the most paranormally active town in the world.

"It is famously the execution place of highwayman Dick Turpin, and counts Guy Fawkes as one of its most infamous residents.

"The three action-packed nights will be led by local people's personal experiences, and they will help Derek and his team in the many investigations that will take place in different locations, from restaurants and offices, to pubs and local homes around this historic city."

The Tempest Anderson Hall, in the Museum Gardens, will play host to the event.

The live audience will be able to watch the investigations unfold and comment on the action with the panel of local experts and dignitaries, who will be monitoring the investigation.

The spokeswoman said: "For the first time ever, Derek will conduct a live Doorstep Divination.

"Every night he will use his psychic gift to give an unsuspecting York resident a personal reading.

"This paranormal fest will culminate in a reading of epic proportions, whereby Derek will participate in a massive platform reading and attempt to connect with the audience."

Acorah and the Ghost Towns team will also attempt to get to the bottom of the strange paranormal happenings that have plagued York for centuries.

The event will take place on the weekend of January 27, 28 and 29.

For further details, contact Ruggie Media on 0207 7932281.

Updated: 10:26 Monday, January 09, 2006