Keep safe in Wimbledon during Halloween and Bonfire, say police

There will be a heavier police presence in Wimbledon town centre and around the train station and bus stops during the busy Halloween and Bonfire season.

The main aim during the festivities is to keep everyone safe, says Met Commander Christine Jones .

Police will be patrolling town centres and transport hubs at key times.

In addition, Transport for London is running Operation Safebus, an intensive two week operation to tackle youth disorder on the transport network during the autumn half term and encompassing Halloween and Bonfire Night.

Commander Jones added: "During this busy period, ensure you stay safe by staying with others and try to attend well organised events.

"When you are out, keep your valuables and high value mobile phones out of sight, or leave them at home.

"If trick or treating, be aware of the impact of your actions on others - it may cause unnecessary worry to some of the more vulnerable members of our communities. Wherever possible parents should try to accompany their children."

She said for those not wishing to have people knock on their doors they can download a poster designed by the Met to put up in front windows, which requests trick or treaters not to knock.

"I would like to stress that our operations are not aimed at demonising young people, the large majority of whom behave safely and responsibly, " said Met Commander Jones.

"However those intent on committing crime and anti social behaviour will face the consequences."

In Merton, there are two main fireworks displays at Wimbledon Park and Morden Park, over the weekend of November 4 and 5, which are expected to attract thousands of people.

But this weekend, police expect more people than usual to be out and about knocking on doors as part of the Halloween festivities.

Chief Inspector Phil Palmer, Merton Police, said "We want everyone to enjoy the Halloween and Fireworks events locally, with some great family events coming up on our borough."

The halloween poster is available from www.met.police.uk