Norfolk police has launched two Halloween posters for people around the county to show whether trick or treaters are welcome, or should stay away.

The force has urged people to be respectful of others over Halloween, which this year falls on a Wednesday.

They say that seasonal high spirits can sometimes leave members of the community - often elderly or vulnerable people - feeling distressed or intimidated.

The two posters - one asking people not to disturb, and another saying trick or treaters are welcome - can be downloaded from the police website to put in windows.

Chief superintendent Dave Marshall said: 'Halloween can be a fun event in our communities for people of all ages but it's important to remember that not everyone enjoys this annual occasion. I'd appeal to everyone to be responsible this Halloween and look out for each other.

'So, if you're planning to go out trick and treating visit only those people who are happy to take part, and please respect the wishes of those who do not want to be involved. I'd also ask the wider public to play their part and be a little more tolerant of Halloween revellers.

'We want everybody to enjoy this annual occasion and don't want to spoil anyone's fun, but it is important that everybody understands the consequences of irresponsible behaviour for themselves and others. We'll have extra patrols on duty and officers will be on the lookout for unsafe or irresponsible behaviour. 'This includes throwing eggs at people or their properties and setting off fireworks in public places.'

Norfolk police also reminded people that damage caused by thrown eggs would be treated as criminal damage, with those caught throwing eggs possibly facing prosecution.

Retailers have been reminded to restrict the sale of eggs and flour to young people in run up to Halloween, and that selling fireworks to those aged under 18 is illegal.

Margaret Dewsbury, chairman of the communities committee at Norfolk County Council, said the council wanted to ensure people could celebrate safely around the county.

'Our trading standards teams do testing to ensure products like Halloween costumes are safe for children as well as working with the police and shop owners across the county to make sure nothing is sold that shouldn't be.'