Halloween can be harmless fun, but sometimes members of the community can become distressed by unexpected callers. The behaviour of some trick or treaters can also be intimidating and even criminal. In the past there have been incidents of anti-social behaviour, damage to property and graffiti.

Those homeowners who do not want to be continually disturbed by the trick or treat callers want a little consideration and left to enjoy their own evening. Wiltshire Police have once again supplied a small poster that will highlight the owners desire not to be disturbed.

The posters, which are available at all Wiltshire police stations, are being given away in a bid to stem the rising number of complaints about Halloween pranksters. To make it easier to get hold of a poster we have supplied a link to an online poster for you to print out. click here

In recent years there has been a trend among some young people to pelt flour and eggs at houses where they have been declined goodies. Householders can pin the posters on their doors or gates and the posters state prominently: Sorry, No Trick or Treat Here Please.

We ask those going out tricking and treating to avoid those homes with clear requests for no callers. While young people enjoyed what has become a Halloween tradition not everyone felt the same about it. We are asking young people to be courteous as they go around.

If any homes have police posters or their own notices stating they do not want Halloween callers then these should be respected. It is not just elderly people who are upset by the trick and treat youngsters who knock on their doors. There are some people who live alone who do not want to be disturbed and can be easily upset.

Last year in Wiltshire as a whole there were more than 100 incidents of anti-social behaviour with 116 reports of egg and flour throwing and the misuse of fireworks. By all means it is a great tradition and we are not trying to discourage Halloween fun we just want to ensure it is not to the detriment of others.

The police have also published guidelines that vulnerable residents can follow to stay safe this October 31. Anyone who does feel threatened or vulnerable should call the police on 0845 408 7000 or, in an emergency dial 999.