If the pumpkin shortage and steep prices do come to pass in the UK, the fun isn’t automatically spoiled.

According to Garden Buildings Direct, experts are urging people to consider carving other fruits instead.

A spokesman for GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk said: “While it might be too early to predict how abundant pumpkins will be this season, it raises a good opportunity for people to consider exploring other ideas to decorate their homes and gardens this Halloween.

“In the 19th century, people used to hollow out turnips into lanterns or carve them with scary faces particularly in the Scottish Highlands and parts of Ireland to celebrate Halloween, and there are many other fruits and vegetables to be considered alongside pumpkins to add variety to your Halloween display.”