Police in Shepton Mallet are stepping up patrols following a rise in reports of teenagers engaging in 'knock and run' behaviour.

The prank, which involves banging loudly on doors and running away, has been causing significant distress to residents, with complaints ranging from young children being woken to elderly residents being frightened.

Officers have received CCTV and Ring doorbell footage from affected residents, which is being reviewed to help identify those responsible. The neighbourhood policing team has increased foot patrols in the most impacted areas.

A spokesperson for the police said: "This behaviour is unacceptable and is causing real distress to those involved. We encourage anyone with information or further footage to get in touch with us."

Is 'knock and run' illegal?

While often dismissed as a harmless prank, 'knock and run'—sometimes known as 'knock down ginger'—can have serious legal consequences. Under the 1847 Town Police Clauses Act, it is illegal to "wilfully and wantonly disturb any inhabitant by pulling or ringing any doorbell or knocking at any door without lawful excuse".

The offence carries the potential for fines or even up to 14 days in prison. Additionally, under the Metropolitan Police Act of 1854, causing a disturbance in this way could result in a £500 fine.

Even if these specific laws are not enforced, those involved in the prank could still face civil charges such as trespassing or disturbing the peace.

However, police note that while the prank is technically illegal, enforcement is rare, particularly when it comes to children. These laws often fall into the category of outdated regulations, such as bans on sledging or honking a car horn aggressively, which are rarely acted upon.

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Residents who witness 'knock and run' incidents or have information are encouraged to report it to the police via 101 or the Avon and Somerset Police website.