AS Stephen King’s 1986 horror novel, IT, hits movie theatres throughout the country, a new craze has hit the streets of Wrecclesham to celebrate the film’s release, and residents are outraged.

While walking his dog down River Lane in Wrecclesham last week, Stuart Bromhead, had the fright of his life as he unexpectedly came face to face with a clown, holding a red balloon.

He took to Facebook group, Farnham RANTS, to warn people of what they may encounter as they head out in the evening.

In the film, IT, the red balloons that have been seen tied to drains, are used to lure children down into the sewers by child-eating clown, Pennywise.

“Why do people do this. What a waste of time and its not even funny. I’d go into early labour if someone jumped out on me like this,” said one Farnham RANTS member upon seeing the post.

While many members were horrified to see the images, others found humour in them, with one commenting: “Sorry ladies and gentleman. If you could direct the clown back to Tilford that would be great. He escaped from my child’s first birthday.”