Halloween pranks banned with prohibition of eggs and flour

Households can put up a police poster warning that a trick-or-treating visit won't be welcome.

Derbyshire police are taking steps to curb an expected surge in anti-social behaviour over the Halloween period, fearing youths will take to the street to devastate rural communities with pranks.

Posters are being handed out to put in front windows and behind shop counters to make it known that spooky-happenings are unwelcome.

Derbyshire police said: "Posters can be put up in front room windows or doors, showing passers-by that that homeowner does not wish to be visited."

There are concerns that some youths may use the opportunity for anti-social behaviour.

Officers are also giving a different poster to shopkeepers which tell customers that eggs and flour will not be sold to anyone under the age of 16.

Residents are also advised to follow the doorstep code when answering the door to unexpected callers, including making sure doors and windows are locked and using a door bar or chain before opening the door.

In Hathersage in the Peak District, officers said they 'hoped for no spooky goings-on' in the period and talking to young people.

PCSO Anthony Boswell visited youngsters at Bradwell CE Infant School on Church Street to chat about enjoying Halloween with their friends and family.

Some shops are enforcing a ban on the selling of flower and eggs in the run-up to Halloween.

He said: “I really enjoyed the visit and it was great to interact with children of all ages. They were able to find out more about my role and asked questions about police in their community.

“Police want to make sure local young people to feel comfortable when they approach us and understand they can turn to us if they are ever lost, scared or threatened. Hopefully now when they now see me and other local officers when they are out and about, they will come and say hello and understand that we are extremely friendly and approachable.”