Police step up Halloween and Bonfire Night patrols

Police will be stepping up patrols of town centres and events during Halloween and Bonfire Night to tackle robbery, burglary, theft and shoplifting.

Northamptonshire Police says the operation comes as "evenings become darker and towns and neighbourhoods become busier with seasonal events".

Det Insp Hayley Thurston hoped everyone would enjoy the season, but urged people to remain "alert" and take "simple precautions to protect themselves and their property".

She said the force aimed to make the county "a hostile environment for offenders".

The force has advised people to be aware of their surroundings, particularly when walking alone after dark, and to keep mobile phones, jewellery and other valuable items out of sight.

Also, it asked people to stick to well-lit routes and, where possible, travel with friends or family.

Thurston said: "Robbery can have a devastating impact on victims, and we will be increasing our visibility in hotspot locations.

"We would also encourage residents to report suspicious behaviour to us," she added.

Do you have a story suggestion for Northamptonshire? Contact us below.

Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.