POLICE in Wirral are preparing for Mischief Night and Halloween.

While many people look forward to celebrating with parties and fireworks displays, it can also be a period that presents real problems for local residents and the emergency services.

Communities in the Wirral area say they are particularly affected by problems related to anti-social behaviour.

The aim of the local neighbourhood police is to improve residents' quality of life, especially for the elderly and vulnerable groups.

Merseyside Police has taken steps with partner agencies to address the issue with initiatives, such as a crackdown on the criminal sale and use of fireworks.

Chief Inspector Philip Davies said: "It has been obvious to me and my officers that there is a lack of parental control over the youths responsible.

"I'd therefore appeal to all parents of youngsters in the area at all times, and especially during the run-up to Halloween and Bonfire Night, to ensure they know where their children are and what they are doing.

"We hope this may help resolve some of our problems with anti-social behaviour and ensure that local residents are free from disturbance and distress.

"Also, I'd like to ask local retailers not to sell paint, flour or eggs to children under the age of 16 years during the run up to Mischief Night and Halloween.

"We would like everyone to be able to enjoy this time of year. Please help improve the lives of those living in your neighbourhood. Together we can tackle anti-social behaviour."

Staff at the ASDA store in Liscard are working alongside police in the run up to Mischief Night - October 29 - and Halloween.

Store manager Richard Summers said: "Halloween and Bonfire Night can be a great time for families, but we want to help the police to clamp down on people using this time of year as an excuse to behave anti-socially."