POLICE are appealing for parents to be aware of their children's activities and behaviour this Hallo-we'en.

Each year the number of calls received from people who are frightened or have become victims of unpleasant 'trick or treat' behaviour incr-eases.

Sergeant Roger Bull, of Wiltshire police, said: "Halloween is a time of fun for young people who enjoy dressing up, and it's a minority of young people who go too far with trick or treating and what started out as fun often turns into crime and anti-social behaviour.

"The police ask people consider the feelings of others this hallowe'en, particularly the elderly, who feel intimidated and often too frightened to open their doors. We appeal to parents to ensure their children behave sensibly."

Liddy Davidson, director of Age Concern said: "It's often the oldest and most vulnerable people who are targeted and they feel helpless to do anything about it. This only increases their sense of isolation and fear. I would add that not all older people feel this way and encourage neighbours' children to visit when accompanied by an adult."