Although this sounds disturbing on paper, the incident a couple of weeks ago was all part of a piece of unusual street theatre to publicise the Carnival of Culture in Lancaster this Saturday (March 1).

It was also to draw attention to opposition for the Centros Miller 'canal corridor' development in Lancaster and other pro-retail schemes such as the selling off of land at Lawson's Bridge in Scoforth, hence the symbolic sucking out of shoppers' souls.

As for the Carnival procession itself, it will involve many musicians and performers and will start off from the Alfred Street car park at 1pm before weaving its way through the city centre, returning to the Mitchell's Brewery site.

More than 40 individuals and organisations have organised the Carnival of Culture to signal their opposition to council plans and to show support for keeping Historic Lancaster historic, and local culture and shops alive.

"We have a beautiful and vibrant city, which developers Centros Miller are threatening to turn into yet another ghost town," said Judy Richards, who lives in Bulk Ward.

"With the Carnival we want to celebrate everything that is unique and exciting about Lancaster. We want local shops and local culture, not just another clone town."

Organisers of the Carnival are inviting everyone to come along on the day and enjoy the music and performances that will take place throughout the city.