EXTRA police will be on the streets tonight in a bid to stop Halloween celebrations becoming a nightmare for homeowners.

There were 12 incidents of eggs and flour hurled at houses and cars during the spooky celebration in Oxford last year.

And police are warning trick or treaters that extra officers will be on the look-out for any antisocial behaviour – particularly against elderly or vulnerable people.

Shops are also being advised by police not to sell eggs or flour to anyone not accompanied by an adult until Bonfire Night.

Julia Wheeler, Oxfordshire crime reduction advisor, said: “Police across the county are working in partnership with local shopkeepers and schools to reduce the number of antisocial behaviour related incidents at this time of year.

“Always remember those intent on going out at Halloween to throw eggs and other substances at houses and cars could be committing an act of criminal damage and this is an arrestable offence.”

Police have been distributing posters to elderly people to put up in their windows if they do not want trick of treaters calling at their door.

Extra police patrols will target areas where elderly and vulnerable residents live.

Mrs Wheeler added: “Halloween is a great time for children to dress up and go out into the night to knock on doors and play ‘trick or treat’.

“But please help us to help others by not sending your children along to the local shops to buy items, like eggs and flour, as these may cause a nuisance to others over Halloween. Also ensure they don’t take these items out of the house.”

Last year Oxford enjoyed a drop in the number of Halloween antics and antisocial behaviour, with 15 incidents, compared to 19 in 2006.

The operation will continue across Oxfordshire throughout next week until Bonfire Night.

‘No trick or treat’ posters are available by logging on to thamesvalley.police.uk/halloween mwilkinson@oxfordmail.co.uk