A WARNING has been issued on social media after a man was seen approaching the rear of a house wearing a horror film mask.

The incident was raised by a concerned Dalton resident, who issued a warning on Facebook after coming face-to-face with the masked figure.

Speaking on Dalton Photos Past and Present, the man who has asked not to be named, said: “Warning. Please share. I was about to go to the back for a cigarette when there was a man in my back garden dressed in all black wearing a Purge mask.

“I instantly grabbed my knife and stepped out but he ran away.

“I don’t know whether he came to hurt me and my family or if he was going to rob us and the estate.

“Everyone in Dalton be careful at night, lock everything up and make sure you have some form of house defence.”

The incident took place around 12.45am on Thursday.

The mask was a replica from horror film sequel The Purge.

The Mail contacted police regarding the incident and a spokesman said: “No report has yet been made to us regarding this.”

Cllr Ann Thurlow, who represents Dalton expressed concern someone would do this in the town.

She said: “People should be wary of approaching this individual if this happens again.

“Dalton is such a lovely town full of nice residents and enjoyable places to visit.

“I am not sure if someone is playing a joke on residents, but it certainly is not a funny one.

“I urge anyone who saw anything to report it to the police."

The Purge is an American action horror sequel, consisting of four films and a TV series.

The films are based on a future dystopian America, where all crime is made legal once a year.

The series has received mixed reviews over the years, and has made over £400m.

Officers urged anyone who witness the incident to contact them on 101.