Police have failed to substantiate reports that a man had been assaulted by someone in a Halloween mask in Littleport on Tuesday - but have issued a warning around the ‘clown craze’.

“We would like to confirm that we have reviewed the incident in detail, including comprehensive CCTV from the immediate area, but cannot find evidence that the assault occurred,” said a police spokesman.

“There has been a great deal of discussion on social media concerning the current ‘clown craze’.

“We have no evidence locally to suggest that these pranks present a risk to public safety.

“We would like to take this opportunity to remind people that the act of frightening or threatening others may be enough to warrant public order criminal offences.”