Zero tolerance in Thetford for Halloween

WHILE Halloween and Bonfire night are a time to celebrate with fireworks and trick and treating, for many it can be an intimidating time of year.

This is why police and partners have launched a bid to crack down on antisocial behaviour and advise people how to have fun safely.

For the fourth year in a row Operation Dampened Spirits in Thetford will be carrying out a range of initiatives throughout the town.

These include working with shops to restrict the sale of flour and eggs, while Do Not Disturb posters will be given to households who do not want to be targeted by trick or treating.

Schools in the area will be paid a visit by the police school liaison officer who will talk about acceptable behaviour, and there will be increased patrols on October 31 and bonfire night on November 5.

Trading standards and Norfolk fire service will also clamp down on illegal sales of fireworks to youngsters under 18, and firefighters will perform bonfire checks to advise on what is an illegal or dangerous blaze.

Thetford Police Sergeant Steve Burke said the initiative had been highly successful in previous years.

He added: “The Neighbourhood Policing Team has worked hard in the last two weeks, completing a survey gauging the opinions of residents in areas affected last year and delivering leaflets explaining the sale of eggs and flour restrictions to under-18s and outlining the potential dangers of bonfire night.”

The operation also involves Breckland Council, flagship Peddars Way and Thetford Town Council who will work together to target known offenders and antisocial behaviour hotspots before they affect the community.

People are also invited to a free family fun day on Barnham Cross Common in Thetford on Sunday, November 8, where there will be two fireworks displays.

The day will run from 2pm until 7.30pm with the displays at 4.45pm and 7pm.

To find out more about the legalities around the bonfire period contact Thetford Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0845 456 4567.