YOUNGSTERS who throw eggs at moving 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.

"If the driver is distracted, a serious accident could occur as a result of such a stupid prank."

He added that youngsters caught carrying out the prank could be prosecuted and he urged shopkeepers to question youngsters who try to buy eggs about why they want them.