Devon and Cornwall Police is encouraging trick-or-treaters to respect the wishes of those who would rather not take part.

A police spokesperson said: "If you're going trick-or-treating this Halloween, have fun and be safe, but remember not everyone wants you to call at their home."

The 'Sorry, no trick or treat this Halloween' campaign encourages members of the public who do not want to be bothered by trick-or-treaters to download and print an advisory poster and place it in the front door or window of their homes.

Bob Bunney from the Devon and Cornwall Police Prevention Department said: "In recent years we've seen an increase in the number of people participating in Halloween fun.

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

"We don't want to discourage anyone or spoil anyone's fun, but we ask people not to call at homes displaying the 'Sorry, no trick or treat' poster and not to be persistent if your requests are declined." If you don't want people knocking on your door on the 31st, you can download the poster here.

If you are happy to take part, you can also download a poster saying that it is ok for trick-or-treaters to come to your house.

Devon and Cornwall Police published some tips for a safe and fun Halloween:

-Adults: always accompany your children when they are trick-or-treating.

-Only go to the 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.

-If you are wearing a mask make sure that you can see where you are going and are aware of your surroundings.

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

-Be careful of lantern flames igniting costumes. Ideally, use battery powered LED candles.