POLICE are urging people out enjoying themselves this Halloween and Bonfire night to stay safe.

Police officers, Police Community Support Officers and Special Constables will be carrying out patrols in communities to ensure that everyone feels safe, and to deal with any issues that do occur.

Police are reminding people to only trick or treat in their own neighbourhood unless they’re with an adult and avoid going out alone.

They are also asking people to stay in well lit areas where there are plenty of houses, avoid cutting through back alleys, ginnels or fields, and for children to make sure an adult knows the area they plan to visit and what time they will be back.

Shop owners are also being asked to make sure that they do not sell items such as eggs and flour to young people who may be using them to commit anti-social behaviour. They are also being reminded about legislation governing the sale and use of fireworks.

Neighbourhood Policing Commander, Adam Thomson, said: “Although this time of year is fun and exciting for many, there are those in our communities for whom it can cause concern and anxiety and increase the fear of crime in local communities."

He added: “I would like to ask parents and guardians to speak to their children, to ensure that they understand how their actions could leave others distressed or upset. And if you know that a family member or neighbour is vulnerable, please keep an eye out for them to help prevent them from becoming concerned about being a victim of crime. Look out for ‘no callers please’ posters and respect your neighbours."

He said police would be working closely with the fire and rescue service, and he urged people not to take any risks with fireworks.

"Anyone caught supplying fireworks to under 18s or lighting them in the street can expect to be dealt with robustly," he said.