Halloween crackdown by police

Halloween can be a worrying time for the elderly

North Wales Police are urging shopkeepers in Wrexham and Flintshire to be vigilant when selling flour and eggs to teenagers.

Friday marks Halloween and police are stepping up patrols in the region to ensure teenagers do not use the evening as an excuse to misbehave.

The moves come after an 86-year-old woman from Shotton was rushed to hospital with a heart attack after trick-or-treaters threw eggs at her home last week.

She is still in hospital and is afraid to return to her sheltered accommodation.

Extra teams of officers will now be on the beat to provide public reassurance.

Anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in any form Supt Michele Williams

"Last year we had lots of calls from people, particularly the elderly, who were frightened to death because they felt intimidated and threatened by groups of youths calling at their homes," said Supt Michele Williams.

"Anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in any form and anyone caught causing harassment, alarm or distress will be arrested under the Public Order Act."

In Britain, Halloween is associated with children playing 'Trick or Treat' - a game where they dress up and visit neighbours' houses threatening to play practical jokes on the inhabitants if not rewarded with sweets or money.

North Wales Police are encouraging adults to escort children trick-or-treating themselves rather than letting them roam the streets alone.

Party

"It is acceptable for young children supervised by a responsible adult to visit the homes of friends and neighbours to trick-or-treat," said Supt Williams.

"There is a big difference between that and groups of youths using Halloween as an excuse to call at the homes of strangers asking for money and gifts."

Police have decided to throw their own Halloween party on Friday in an attempt to keep youngsters off the street.

Deeside Police are inviting children to go along to St Ethelwold's Church Hall in Shotton in fancy dress, with an early party for the under 10s and a later one for 10-14-year-olds.