Swale borough council in Kent, in partnership with Kent Police, has also issued guidance that some households may not take part in Hallowe’en celebrations for “religious reasons”.

Hannah Perkin, chairman of the community committee of the council, said in a statement: “While many households are decorating their homes, making their costumes or buying sweets for the trick or treaters, some in Swale may be worrying about Hallowe’en instead.”

She added: “We need to respect their right to sit out of the festivities.”

Hallowe’en is a celebration of All Hallows and is on the eve of All Saints’ Day, which commemorates the dead. However, the celebration may have roots in the Celtic autumnal festival of Samhain.

The nature of religious objection is not explained by the authorities, but many faith groups could have theological objections to partaking in celebrations, as it could be seen as too Christian by non-Christians, or too pagan by Christians.

Religion is not the only cause for concern, and information on the Swale website explains that financial hardship may prevent residents from taking part because they lack “the disposable income for decorations and sweets”.

Others, according to Leicestershire Police, may also be concerned about trick or treaters visiting because they suffer from “PTSD”.

Buckinghamshire council informs would-be trick-or-treaters that some residents do not wish to be disturbed because they are “fighting demons of their own”.

The council adds in its online advice that Hallowe’en celebrants should “not knock too loudly”, and that those making decorative pumpkins should use battery-powered tealights instead of real candles.

Read More: Trick or treating can upset religious beliefs, say police