POLICE are warning shops to sell flour and eggs ‘at their discretion’ ahead of Halloween.

PSCO Harold from Bournemouth Police visited businesses in Bournemouth town centre during his patrols on Thursday, October 26, providing reassurance and advice around Halloween next week.

Shops selling eggs and flour have been told to sell the products at their discretion ahead of festivities next Tuesday.

Dorset Police are also advising the public around ‘trick or treating’ during the evening, and that ‘not everyone wants visitors’.

The warning comes as part of Operation Relentless, with the aim to prevent anti-social behaviour across Dorset.

READ MORE: Critters invade Bournemouth as part of Halloween installation

In a post on social media, Dorset Police said: “Your idea of Halloween fun might not be someone else’s.

“Avoid calling at people’s houses when trick-or-treating if you aren’t sure they’d like to join in with Halloween.

“As a rule of thumb, if they’ve got decorations outside their house then they’ll probably be open to trick-or-treaters.

“Some people might be distressed by strangers knocking on their door.

“Be considerate of others and, if in doubt, stick to the houses of people you know.”

Dorset Police are providing a free poster on its website, which can be coloured in and posted on the front of houses to welcome trick or treaters.