XTRA police patrols will be on Craven's streets to help residents enjoy Hallowe'en, Mischief Night and Bonfire Night - and to deal firmly with those who want to spoil these traditional nights of good humour and entertainment.

Regular officers, special constables and police community support officers will run special high-visibility patrols.

Their job is to act firmly and decisively to stop anti-social behaviour by individuals or groups and to reassure the law-abiding majority of residents by their presence.

They will patrol on foot and in vehicles and will be supported by Road Policing Group officers checking the highways for troublemakers.

"We all know the difference between a prank and an act of vandalism," said Inspector Tad Nowakowski, of Skipton Police.

"We all know the difference between a good-natured trick or treat and an ugly act of intimidation.

"We all know the difference between enjoying the magic of fireworks and using them as a weapon to destroy property or endanger life.

"The tragedy is that there is a tiny minority who know the difference between right and wrong, but don't care. Quite simply, our job is to get out there and deal with that minority."

Two years ago, Insp Nowakowski admitted the police had been caught out by a spate of petty hooliganism, but this year he said police leave had been cancelled and extra officers would be on duty until Bonfire Night and beyond.