POLICE across Vale Royal are ready to put the frighteners on any anti-social youths this Hallowe’en.

Officers from three Neighbourhood Police Units will join forces in operations designed to tackle problems throughout All Hallows Eve and bonfire night.

There have been issues with anti-social and nuisance behaviour across Vale Royal with youngsters using Hallowe’en and Bonfire Night as an excuse to cause misery for others.

This year, officers from Northwich, Winsford and the Western Rural NPU want to use education and enforcement to target those who might seek to hijack the events.

Insp Peter Minghella said: “Hallowe’en and Bonfire Night should be a time of fun. We don’t want to stop people from enjoying themselve, but there are limits to what’s acceptable.

“Sadly, there seems to be a minority intent on causing trouble in our communities.

“There’s nothing wrong with genuine trick or treating but behaviour such as throwing eggs and flour at people or property will not be tolerated.

“Where behaviour is not criminal but is still unacceptable, we’ll seek to use other tools at our disposal to deal with the issue.”

One of these will be to issue Section 27 notices which ban people from a certain area for a period of 48 hours if they have been responsible for crime and disorder.

Inspector Dave Snasdell, of Winsford NPU added: “We want everyone in Vale Royal to know we’re serious about our commitment to tackling anti-social, nuisance and criminal behaviour.

“But for this to work we need all residents to call us whenever they witness or experience problem behaviour. Early reporting of incidents will enable us to respond more efficiently and subsequently will help make Hallowe’en less scary for all.”

To report any incidents, call 0845 458 0000.