SHOPKEEPERS in Eastleigh have been warned not to sell eggs to youngsters in a bid to stop them terrorising elderly people over Hallowe'en.

Extra police patrols will also be brought in to crack down on anyone who goes over the top while playing trick or treat.

Police and council chiefs have joined forces to make sure there is no repeat of previous years when pranksters have caused mayhem by hurling eggs at homes.

A plea has also been made to the town's shopkeepers to avoid providing the Hallowe'en ammunition by selling eggs at this time of year to youngsters.

To tackle any potential hot spots police patrols are being increased in neighbourhoods on Hallowe'en night.

Eastleigh Community Safety Partnership is strongly advising elderly residents not to open their doors after dark - especially if they are not expecting any visitors.

Parents are being urged to ensure that their children do not cause intimidation to householders, particularly elderly residents, by using threatening or abusive behaviour.

Eastleigh police's crime reduction officer Barbara White said: "We want young people to go out and have fun and enjoy the celebrations.

"Most people will enter into the spirit of the occasion but for some elderly residents it can be daunting and frightening to open their door and find cloaked and masked people on their doorsteps."

Eastleigh Community Safety Partnership chairman Councillor Peter Wall said: "Traditionally, Hallowe'en is an evening of fun, particularly for young people.

"But in recent years there have been several complaints when a minority go too far."

Cllr Wall, who is a former police chief superintendent, has warned that trick or treat could be considered a serious criminal offence.

He said: "Strictly, to knock on doors and demand with menaces is blackmail. But provided it is just a harmless bit of fun it will not attract the attention of the law."

Cllr Wall is also concerned about personal safety both for residents and pranksters.

He said: "Eastleigh is a safe place compared with many areas nationwide.

"But we must remember that elderly people may feel frightened or intimidated during Hallowe'en and children who are out during the evening could visit the homes of strangers.

"So we strongly recommend that parents supervise their children."

Cllr Wall also had a message for shopkeepers.

He said: "Please avoid selling eggs at this time of year to youngsters. They are unlikely to be taking up Jamie Oliver lessons for making omelettes."