Police are on alert with special egg-busting measures for Hallowe'en.

The crack-down - against egg-throwing hooligans - has sparked a poster campaign and appeals to local stores in Witney.

And on Hallowe'en night officers will patrol the town's estates on the lookout for youngsters with messy missiles.

Last year, officers seized 25 dozen eggs from children suspected of wanting to use them for anti-social purposes, said Insp Michael Carrick.

"If one hits you it can hurt and it leaves behind an unacceptable mess," he said.

"We are not killjoys. We want people to have a fun time on Hallowe'en. "But some people get frightened by it all, particularly if they see trick-or-treat as a threat, and if they have eggs thrown at them."

The station has run off 800 special posters to give to householders who do not want to be disturbed.

They are available at the station in Welch Way and at local post offices and the library.

Stores and supermarkets have also been asked to be wary of selling eggs to youngsters.

"Our patrols will confiscate eggs and, if parents want them back, they will have to come and collect," added Insp Carrick.

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