CHESHIRE Police are urging residents to find alternative ways to celebrate Halloween this year.

The force says that activities such as truck or treating are ‘not recommended’, while Halloween parties are banned due to the coronavirus pandemic.

An increased police presence will be on patrol during this period in order to ensure that members of the public are sticking to the rules.

Superintendent Jo Marshall-Bell said: “It has been a tough year for many, and we recognise that seasonal festivities are really important for mental health and wellbeing.

“We really want you to have fun this Halloween and Bonfire Night but to do so safely, within the law and bear in mind the current situation with the pandemic.

“Anti-social behaviour and criminal damage can have a significant impact on the local community and can have a long lasting effect on victims.

“Now more than ever, we need to pull together to help slow the spread of the virus while celebrating Halloween a little differently.

“I’m confident the majority of residents will stick to the rules and do all they can to celebrate Halloween safely, but there will be an increased officer presence across the county to provide reassurance and for anyone who may have any concerns over the Halloween and Bonfire period.

“Our approach will continue to be engage, explain and encourage and only as a last resort, enforce.”

Anyone who breaches the Covid-19 restrictions could be fined £200.

Cheshire police and crime commissioner David Keane said: “It’s been pleasing to see that the vast majority of residents have adhered to the new legislation, and I hope that this continues throughout the Hallowe’en and Bonfire period.

“It’s great to see our communities across Cheshire having great fun, but we all have a very important part to play over the coming weeks and months to help slow the spread of the virus.

“Covid-19 is very much still out there – we must not let our guard down, and the personal choices that we all make are crucial to protect others.”