Ghosts and ghouls and things that go bump in the night are always good for business in an old manor house.

But those of a particularly nervous disposition might do well to avoid Preston Manor in Brighton.

The Edwardian House in Preston Drove, is running ghost tours based on historical records and hysterical sightings.

Penny Balchin, a museum teacher for Brighton and Hove City Council, is the guide for the ghostly goings-on at the manor.

She said: "Preston Manor has many ghosts, some dating back to Tudor times. The Stanford family who lived here reported many sightings and strange experiences."

The manor's most famous ghost is the White Lady. A seance held in 1896 suggested she was the ghost of a nun who had been excommunicated for "misdemeanours" and murdered.

As well as sightings of ghostly faces at the window and people disappearing through locked doors, visitors have reported hearing moans and groans, strange smells and icy blasts.

Former residents and guests at the house reported a wardrobe where clothes would mysteriously develop a diamond pattern cut in them.

The north-west bedroom - said to be the most haunted room - is where guests reported a disembodied hand moving up and down the bed post.

The latest encounter was just yesterday when security officer Kevin Bentman heard a small girl laughing in the attic.

Penny said: "Our ghosts look like you and me - they are not hazy or ghostly apparitions. And although people have been spooked by them, they have never done any harm."

Sunday afternoon ghost tours at Preston Manor are on October 24, November 28, January 30, February 27 and March 27. Tickets are £6 for adults and £4 for children. For more details, call 01273 292843.