DORSET Police is reminding trick-or-treaters to be aware of those who do not want to be visited this Halloween.

The force is encouraging members of the public who do not want to be bothered by spooky strangers to download and print a poster available at dorset.police.uk/Halloween and place it in the front door or window of their home.

A poster is also available on the site for retailers, focusing on the sale of flour and eggs.

Bob Bunney, from the prevention department, said: “In recent years we’ve seen an increase in the number of people participating in Halloween fun.

“We’d say to anyone who’s going trick-or-treating to think about other people, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, as they may get worried if strangers are continually calling at the door during the evening.

“We don’t want to discourage anyone or spoil anyone’s fun, but we’d ask people not to call at homes displaying the poster.”

Dorset Police is asking people to follow these tips to have a fun and safe Halloween:

• Children should always be accompanied by an adult when they are trick-or-treating

• Only go to houses of people you know and who are happy for you to call

• Stay safe, keep to places that you know and are well lit. Do not take short cuts through gardens, alleyways or parks.

• Watch out for traffic - drivers might not see you.

• Carry a torch and a fully charged mobile phone (if you have one).