SPOOKY ghosts in the eerie grounds of Magdalen College School were hunted by young detectives this week.

Author Jonathan Stroud visited the Cowley Place school to share his ghost hunting secrets on Tuesday.

More than 200 youngsters from the city welcomed the author for an inspirational talk about his thrilling series of novels Lockwood and Co.

Students gathered from Larkrise Primary School, Isis Academy, Orchard Meadow Primary School, St John Fisher Catholic School and St Michael’s Church of England Primary School.

The books tell the story of a group of children who investigate hauntings after a ghost epidemic hits London.

Mr Stroud, whose Lockwood and Co: The Whispering Skull has been nominated for book award the Carnegie Medal, said: “It was a delight to visit Magdalen College School. There was so much energy and enthusiasm. I’ve never seen so many potential ghost hunters in one room. I had a great time.”

Magdalen student Nolu Omotayo, who dressed up as book character Anthony Lockwood, said: “The talk was exciting and inspiring. I hope he comes back.”