WILL a new superstore in Poole end up with egg on its face after being accused of encouraging trick-or-treaters?

Asda is selling nine barn eggs in special Hallowe'en boxes among the broomsticks and capes in a special aisle of the £30 million store in Holes Bay Road.

On the front is a picture of a long-nosed witch holding a frightened-looking egg with the words "Hallowe'en fun".

The company is selling the eggs nationally and says they are for making healthy Hallowe'en treats and ghoulish concoctions.

But bus drivers, police and residents in Poole say it's no yolk.

They are concerned the only "fun" children will be enjoying is egg-throwing - which is becoming part of British trick-or-treating.

Bill Bishop, head of operations for Yellow Buses in Bournemouth, said: "We've had our buses targeted before, particularly around Hallowe'en.

"I'm disappointed Asda has decided to do this. It has obviously not thought about the consequences."

Paul Hartigan, district manager for Wilts and Dorset Bus Company in Poole, said: "I am concerned it could give children ideas by advertising the eggs in this way. We will be contacting Asda about this."

A Poole resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "I couldn't believe it when I saw them on the shelves. It's almost saying this is what they are for - a trick or treat box."

Inspector Derrick Lillywhite, from Poole police, said: "Egg-throwing is a disgusting and offensive thing, which causes distress and damage.

"I would appeal to retailers to consider carefully who they sell to.

And the message for anyone thinking of throwing eggs is they are risking arrest, a fine and criminal record."

Asda spokesman Edward Watson said: "The eggs form part of a Hallowe'en food range. They are for Hallowe'en parties and to raise the idea of healthy eating. "The design is not for people to throw them."

IT'S NO YOLK

DORSET police has issued advice to trick or treaters:

Trick or treating should be supervised by an adult

Parents or guardians should know where you are

Large groups can be intimidating

Only call on friends, family and neighbours

Do not expect money

A balaclava mask can be frightening

No tricks should be played

If an address displays a sign or notice requesting no trick or treaters - do not call

What you consider a trick can be frightening or even a criminal offence

Do not call after 9pm

Householders, do not give money; use a door chain or put up a sign saying no trick or treaters and call 999 in emergencies only.