An exorcist rather than an electrician may be called in to deal with flashing lights at an Essex castle as staff fear ghostly goings-on.

The phantom flickerings started at Mountfitchet Castle, Stansted about a year ago, and happen most days at midday.

Management called in two electrical experts who checked all equipment and lights but everything was normal.

Tthe castle stands on a 2,000 year old site which formerly housed an Iron Age fort before being occupied by Saxons and Vikings. The Normans built their castle in 1066.

A spokesman said: "Local legends abound about dark deeds and unexplained mysteries which have taken place over the years on the castle site.

"Now we are considering calling in an authority on poltergeists and consulting a local vicar to help solve the mystery and lay the ghostly experience to rest. "

Published Tuesday, March 19, 2002