A TEEN disco is aiming to stamp out Hallowe'en bad behaviour on Dorchester's streets.

In the past Dorset Police have had to deal with serious incidents like assault, theft, criminal damage, arson and possessing offensive weapons as well as drunkenness, threatening and abusive behaviour and throwing missiles.

Police Constable Paul Holman said: "Hallowe'en incidents can range from egg throwing to demanding money."

Leaflets will be delivered door to door to highlight that while many people enjoy the ghoulish event, for some such as the elderly it can become distressing.

PC Holman said the campaign against Hallowe'en horrors launched last year worked very well in reducing the amount of problems, by raising awareness among parents that their children should only approach houses of people they know.

He said Hallowe'en outfits could be seen by some people as intimidating.

A grant from Dorset Police is funding a teen disco in the county town in an attempt to curb anti-social behaviour and to provide a safe alternative to trick or treating for teens.

The Halloween event at the Firestation Nightclub in Trinity Street is being organised as part of a SNAP - Say No and Phone - nationwide Crimestoppers initiative and is open to all young people aged 11-16-years-old.

The club will be decorated in honour of the occasion and everyone is encouraged to dust off their ghoul, witch and devil outfits for another year and take to the dance floor in fancy dress.

Other attractions on the night include a free prize draw that offers a skateboard first prize along with a variety of runner-up treats, and a goodie bag for all revellers at the end of the night.

The evening will differ from usual under-age nightclub events because there is a focus on offering young people advice and information about all aspects of personal safety, including alcohol, drug and tobacco use.

Inspector Les Fry of Dorchester police said: "The nights are fully supported by the police at Dorchester. We think these evenings are an excellent idea for giving young people something to do and a place to go."

The event takes place on October 31 from 7-10pm and is strictly alcohol, tobacco and drug free. Admission is by ticket only, and tickets cost £2.50 and can be bought from Routes in North Square, Dorchester Youth Club, Kings Road, the Tourist Information Centre in Antelope Walk, and Charminster and Charlton Down Village Stores.