As the nights become darker and the days become colder, our thoughts here at Newham police turn to cracking down on crime; as autumn draws in, we usually experience an increase in anti-social behaviour related calls.

This can be from people starting bonfires, letting off fireworks or from those using the cover of darkness to commit crimes such as robbery, burglary or criminal damage.

We always work closely with our communities and our partners, including the London Fire Brigade and Newham Council, to ensure that planned events go smoothly and that everyone feels safe going about their day to day activities.

My officers will be out and about over the next few weeks, patrolling schools, parks and open spaces, to engage with young people and prevent any anti-social behaviour.

We know that the vast majority of young people in Newham are law-abiding, but there is a small minority whose behaviour can cause great distress to members of our communities.

During this busy period, ensure you stay safe by staying with others after dark and try to attend well- organised events.

When you are out, keep your valuables and mobile phones out of sight, or leave them at home.

If trick or treating, be aware of the impact of your actions on others – it may cause unnecessary worry to some of the more vulnerable members of our communities. Wherever possible, parents should always try to accompany their children.

Also, don’t forget the security of your home. If you are going out for the evening, ensure you have closed and locked your doors and windows and make sure that you leave lights on. The clocks go back on October 27, so it may be dark before you expect it.

The best way for us to tackle anti-social behaviour is with your help and support.

We need your local community intelligence to enable us to find out who is committing crime, so that we can stop them.

If you have any information, please contact your local neighbourhood policing team or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.