Children across Bradford will be enjoying spooky shenanigans for Halloween tonight but police are urging that everyone takes care to make sure nothing more sinister happens.

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said unaccompanied children out after dark could be vulnerable any night of the year and that trick or treat night made them no safer.

Parents were warned not to let their children go out trick or treating alone.

The spokesman said: "Children should be very wary when out trick or treating. They shouldn't go into people's houses and should be accompanied by an adult they know.

"Older youngsters who go out in groups with friends should stick to their local area. They should map out a route first and stick to it so their parents know their whereabouts. We'd advise anyone out and about to keep trick or treating to the early part of the evening."

Police officers are also warning elderly people to be on their guard tonight because Halloween can be rife with people committing distraction burglaries.

The spokesman said: "The elderly and vulnerable people should be on their guard too because distraction burglaries are rife at this time.

"They should keep the chain on and not open the door if they are suspicious. We don't want to ruin the fun for anyone but we want people to realise that there are unscrupulous people out there who will abuse trick or treat night to distract people and commit crime.

"If anyone is in doubt they should call the police."

Historically there have been problems with nuisance behaviour in the city in the past on Halloween and the run up to bonfire night. Officers say there will be a police presence on the streets tonight and said there will be no trouble if people are sensible. They also said they will be looking out for anyone misusing fireworks.

"We would urge people to act sensibly. We will take action against anyone who is caught throwing fireworks or misusing them in any way.

"The message is simple, ensure you keep safe and enjoy yourself," said the spokesman.

Pictured with her witch mask is nine-year-old Sarah Sampson. She made it at a Halloween workshop at the city's Colour Museum.