YOUNGSTERS who throw eggs at vehicles could cause an accident, police are warning.

The County Durham force has had a rise in complaints about youngsters throwing eggs at cars, buses and vans, as well as people and houses, as a prank.

"Not only is this practice annoying and distressing to the victims, but it is very dangerous, particularly if the target is a moving vehicle,'' said Sergeant Dave Young, of the force's community safety branch.

He added that youngsters caught carrying out the prank could be prosecuted and urged shopkeepers to question youngsters buying eggs.