Suffolk police has confirmed it will be upping its officer patrols this Halloween in a bid to deter anti-social behaviour.

On Tuesday, thousands of families will be out and about in the evening as youngsters dress in their scariest costumes and knock on neighbours' doors for 'trick or treat'.

But with reports of anti-social behaviour on Halloween each year, often by teenagers, police have confirmed additional patrols will be out and about on Tuesday night.

Chief Inspector Stuart Grimsey said: 'We hope that this year people will take a responsible attitude to Halloween.

'While we don't want youngsters to think we are picking on them or trying to spoil their fun, it is important that everyone understands the consequences of irresponsible behaviour for themselves and others.

'If you are planning to go out trick or treating, please make sure you only visit those who are happy to take part and please respect residents who may not want to be disturbed.

'We are also appealing to the public in general to be a little more tolerant of the behaviour of those celebrating Halloween.'

Chief Insp Matthew Rose of the police's contact and control room said officers received reports each year of anti-social behaviour on Halloween, but said 'over the last few years we have seen that reduce. The majority of the calls we do get are Halloween related'.

Among the problem behaviour reported are instances of egg-throwing and threatening behaviour.

Last year the 'killer clown' craze was reported widely across the county, but it is understood that so far this year only one has been reported.

Chief Insp Rose added: 'There are fads, but we have not seen the kinds of increase in those reports that we saw last year. We will keep on top of the latest trends and issue safety advice when needed.'

Retailers are being encouraged to restrict the sale of eggs and flour to young people.

Police are urging those who are driving not to drink on Halloween, and have prepared posters which can be printed off for those to put in their windows if they do not want to be disturbed by trick or treaters.

Visit www.suffolk.police.uk to download a poster.