POLICE are warning residents that wearing a clown suit this Hallowe’en could get them arrested – thanks to a nationwide craze that is encouraging pranksters to jump out and scare people in the streets.

Hampshire Constabulary has had a number of reports of such incidents across the county.

Superintendent Paul Bartolomeo said: “We don’t want to be killjoys but some of these incidents have been extremely frightening for those involved.

“We would ask people to think about the impact of their actions.

“What to them is a harmless prank, could be an intimidating and threatening experience to others, especially young children and vulnerable people.

“Also, by taking part in this craze, people could find themselves in a situation which leads to a public order incident.

“They could be arrested and ultimately end up with a criminal record.

“These incidents are taking up valuable police time and resources, and will ultimately have an impact on other calls coming into the control room and officers attending other incidents.”

He added: “This appears to be a national craze at the moment and we would strongly advise people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight not to be part of it.”

If you have any concerns or need to report an incident call on 101.