Halloween is almost upon us but Hounslow Council is warning that with Covid-19 restrictions in place, many residents will not want people knocking at their doors.

The council has not banned Halloween trick or treaters but has designed a poster that can be downloaded and printed by residents who want to make clear they are following the rules or self-isolating.

Cllr Candice Atterton, the Cabinet Member for Adults, Social Care and Health said: "Nobody wants to stop people celebrating, but cases are still rising to record levels in Hounslow, and that means that restraint, and following the Tier 2 rules, will be essential this year so none of us transmit this awful virus.

"That means we must not meet anyone who is not from our homes indoors and follow the Rule of Six when we meet family and friends outdoors.

"Allowing people to say they don't want to take part this year is the right thing to do, and we're happy to help people who want to say, 'no thank you'."

The council has also made available a series of Halloween-themed colouring pages for younger children who want to join in the trick or treat spirit, without putting others at risk.

Posters can be downloaded here.