WHILE police might usually target their manpower towards drink driving, shoplifting or burglary, officers in Folkestone are trying to crack a very different problem.

Egg throwing has become a trend followed by youths of the town and so police have teamed up with shopkeepers to tackle the crime.

Shops have been asked to display posters warning that eggs will only be sold to youngsters if they are part of a more extensive shopping list.

The posters say that if traders believe the eggs are being purchased to be thrown, youngsters will be turned away.

Posters were printed after many complaints that youngsters were throwing eggs at houses and cars.

The posters state: "Due to a recent trend where youths have been caught throwing eggs at houses and cars, this shop will no longer sell eggs to children or youths unless obviously part of a shopping list.

"This shop is working with local police to stop this trend and we hope you will understand our reasons for this action."

Many stores have already agreed to display the posters, including Safeway in Cheriton, Sainsbury's at West Park Farm, Ralph's Store in Warren Road and Costcutters in Fleming Way.