RESIDENTS who do not want trick-or-treaters knocking on their door this Hallowe'en are being urged to display a special poster.

West Devon Borough Council is working in partnership with Devon and Cornwall Police to help make Hallowe'en an enjoyable and safe time for everyone.

The poster, which reads 'Sorry . . . no trick or treat this Hallowe'en', can be stuck on a front door or window during Hallowe'en night (tomorrow).

Ian Bollans, the council's head of environmental health and housing and chair of the local Community Safety Partnership, said: 'Some people become anxious at Hallowe'en about people in fancy dress knocking on their door.

'The majority of those going trick-or-treating also want to be considerate, and we would ask them not to call on a house if they see this poster in the window.'

Sgt Dave Anning, from Devon and Cornwall Police, said: 'We're not here to ruin people's fun but we would urge trick-or-treaters to be aware that some people do not want to be disturbed.

'We would like to thank the Times for printing the poster which will be particularly useful for elderly and vulnerable residents.'