POLICE in Ellesmere Port have been getting into the Halloween spirit by employing a new officer – PC Pumpkin.

The moustachioed, pumpkin-headed recruit is decked out in full police clobber and appears to be carrying a speed gun cunningly crafted from… yes, another pumpkin.

He has recently been on duty in the Neston area, and according to some residents his presence has caused motorists to slow down.

Ellesmere Port police wrote on Facebook: “Take extra care when driving through the Neston area as PC Pumpkin is out on patrol today with his speed gun.”

It has sparked a flurry of comments, the vast majority of which applaud the officers for having fun and engaging with the community.

One woman summed up the general feeling when she wrote: “Love this! Well done for joining in the fun!”

Another added; “I drove past this the other day and people were slowing down! Fab idea!”

And one man joked on Twitter: “I know police numbers have been drastically cut but I didn't realise to this point!”