YOUNG people in Wyre Forest are being encouraged to follow a code of good trick or treating during Hallowe'en and enjoy fireworks safely in the run-up to bonfire night.

Insp Paul Crowley, of Kidderminster police, speaking about the launch of the Operation Ghost campaign, said: "We used this initiative to focus on safety last autumn and we hope to build on these successes this year.

"As last year, we will be sending out letters to parents, via the local schools, and we have also designed a poster that can be displayed in a window or porch over the Hallowe'en period."

The A4-sized poster, which is bright orange, is being distributed through the Shuttle/Times & News, in time for the event, on Sunday, October 31.

The aim of the poster is to let potential trick or treaters know whether they are welcome at a particular address or prevent unwanted callers for householders.

Local beat managers will also be visiting schools to reinforce the message and work with community wardens and community safety officers to make the poster available in shops and post offices.

Insp Crowley added: "The concept of Hallowe'en has grown dramatically in recent years and although calling on neighbours while dressed up as ghosts and ghouls is fantastic fun for the children, it can be a frightening ordeal for others, particularly older folk, who may live alone.

"We, therefore, ask children and their parents to respect the posters where they see them displayed. We would also discourage older children, particularly teenagers, from trick or treating. While it is common practice to offer younger children sweets and other goodies, people feel uncomfortable offering teenagers the same and it is unreasonable to expect to be given money.

"Safety is also an important issue at Hallowe'en. Bear in mind that dark costumes mean children are not easily seen by motorists and it is safer to go out in groups, preferably accompanied by a responsible adult.

"Trick or treat only in your own neighbourhood and stay on the doorstep, rather than going inside people's houses.

"Finally, do not play any nasty tricks if you are not offered a treat - it's likely to land you in more trouble than it is worth.

"Our message for Hallowe'en is to have fun and stay safe and to only call at houses where you know you will be welcomed."