POLICE in Wiltshire are handing out posters to people wanting to avoid the Halloween tradition of trick or treaters.

Posters displaying the message 'No trick or treat here' will be available from inquiry offices in Melksham, Trowbridge and Chippenham, as well as on the force's website.

Police are also calling on parents to monitor their children when trick or treating.

A police spokesman said problems of anti-social behaviour, graffiti and criminal damage have been reported in previous years.

She said: "Hallowe'en can be harmless fun, but sometimes members of the community can become distressed by unexpected callers.

"The behaviour of some trick or treaters can also be intimidating and even criminal." Posters can be downloaded from www.wiltshire.police.uk