Police in London have launched a seasonal crackdown on crime and anti-social behaviour ahead of Halloween.

Today the Met has warned that vulnerable members of communities often feel anxious during the seasonal period.

Last year police were called over 5,000 times a week about anti social behavioural incidents. This increased "significantly" between Halloween and Bonfire Night where there was a 38 per cent rise on police calls.

Superintendent Tania Coulson, who will lead the Autumn Nights operation, said: "We are here to ensure young people enjoy the festivities but remain safe in doing so.

"Our operations are not aimed at ruining the fun of this time of year but are in place to ensure those who are intent on committing crime and anti-social behaviour are dealt with accordingly."

Operation Autumn Nights will map crime hot spots for anti-social behaviour to ensure officers are prudently placed.

The seasonal crackdown group will also work alongside Operation Sceptre where intense weapon sweeps and other tactics are being implemented to target repeat knife crime offenders.

The Deputy Mayor for policing and crime, Sophie Linden, said: "The majority of Londoners enjoy this time of year in a safe way, but the Met's Autumn Nights and Operation Sceptre activity help ensure anyone looking to commit crime is dealt with robustly and dangerous weapons are removed from the capital's streets.

"Anti-social behaviour can have a serious impact on local residents, and knife crime leaves communities devastated. By targeting repeat offenders, increasing visible policing and engaging vulnerable people, we can drive down crime and help everyone celebrate safely."

Officers will be speaking to vulnerable residents over the Halloween period to offer crime prevention advice.