YOUNG trick or treaters around the Bay are being urged to be on their best behaviour this Halloween.

Police, together with other agencies, are anxious the lonely and vulnerable are not spooked by the doorstep callers tonight.

A spokesman for the multi-agency Safer Communities Torbay said today: "Although young people may consider it to be just seasonal fun, for some on the receiving end of Halloween tricks it can cause unnecessary fear and anxiety.

"Vulnerable groups such as lone females and the elderly can often feel perturbed enough to lock themselves in their own homes as a result of some of the childish pranks played during the festivities."

Safer Communities — including Torbay Council, fire, health and probation services — have teamed up with local neighbourhood policing teams and street wardens to ensure the fun-based frights are enjoyable and harmless for all residents.

Already police units have been out and about distributing 'No Trick, No Treat, No Thanks, Have Fun' posters to local residents in a bid to raise awareness and contribute to a reduction of anti-social behaviour incidents.

Louisa Aiton, Torbay Council's cabinet member for community safety and engagement, said: "Elderly people in particular can be left scared and intimidated by those calling at their homes asking for a trick or treat – particularly when visitors are in large groups and in frightening costumes.

"We hope everyone has fun over the Halloween period, but we would urge the public to respect the wishes of those households displaying 'No Thanks' posters."

Safer Communities says great effort has been put in by community centres across Torbay in organising Halloween parties for young people, most of which are free to attend.

Among those planned are events at the Acorn Centre in Barton, Torquay, the Windmill Centre in Pendennis, Hele, Torquay, and the Entertainer in Foxhole, Paignton.

More details are available on www.safercommunitiestorbay.org.uk where the group's special edition newsletter can be downloaded.

Posters, like the one pictured above, for residents who do not wish to take part in Halloween celebrations are also available.

Businesses who require 'No Eggs, No Flour' posters can call Safer Communities Torbay on 01803 841274 or email scatt@torbay.gov.uk