CHESHIRE Police have warned that Halloween is not a ‘free pass' for yobbish behaviour.

Some 30 incidents of anti-social behaviour were reported in Crewe on October 31 last year, with a further five in Nantwich.

Chief Inspector Chris Brierley said: “Halloween should be an event which people of all ages can enjoy.

"Anyone who thinks it is an excuse for intimidation, vandalism or drunken violence will find that they will be dealt with very quickly.

"Additional officers will be on duty on October 31, patrolling areas which are hotspots for trouble and responding to calls.

"We will issue fixed penalty fines or arrest people, whichever is appropriate.”

In a repeat of last year’s strategy, Cheshire Police and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service have teamed up to tackle the Halloween and Bonfire Night period under the ArcAngel initiative to prevent alcohol-related disorder and crime.

Alex Waller of Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "We are all working together to keep people safe and make sure an exciting and enjoyable period is not tarnished by an increase in anti-social behaviour and nuisance fires."

Inspector Brierley added: “Where children are concerned parents are the key.

"Adults should always accompany young children on trick-or-treat tours to make sure they are safe.

“If they have teenage children they should know where they are and what they are doing.

"There are a small number who may use Halloween as an excuse to go out drinking and threatening people.

"Parents must make sure that does not happen.

"People who are organizing Halloween parties for adults should ensure they do not degenerate into drunken disorder."