Is knock-a-door run illegal and can parents be fined for it?

SOME childhood pranks have really stood the test of time, one being knock-a-door run.

Here's everything you need to know about the game, including whether you run the risk of a fine if your kids play it.

1

What is knock-a-door run?

Knock-a-door run is a practical joke which involves knocking on someone's front door and then running away before they can answer it.

The game — typically played by children — can leave people slightly amused at best, but confused or angry at worst.

In addition to knock-a-door run, it has many different names, including:

• Knock, knock, ginger (UK)
• Knock down ginger (UK)
• Knock and run (UK)
• Ding, dong, ditch (US)
• Ring and run (US)
• Chappy (Scotland)

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The prank dates back to 19th-century Britain, and the common name knock down ginger is thought to come from an old English poem.

Is knock down ginger illegal?

Although the game is usually harmless, it is possible that playing knock down ginger may have serious legal consequences.

According to the 1847 Town Police Clauses Act, it is against the law to “wilfully and wantonly disturb any inhabitant by pulling or ringing any doorbell or knocking at any door without lawful excuse”.

Even if a child is not in breach of that specific law, they could still be charged with trespassing or disturbing the peace, which are civil offences.

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Can I be fined for playing knock down ginger?

In theory, the Metropolitan Police Act of 1854 can land you with a £500 fine if your kid is causing a disturbance by playing knock down ginger.

Breaking the 1847 law could also carry a punishment of up to 14 days in prison.

However, while the prank is technically illegal it is highly unlikely that these laws would be enforced, especially when it comes to children.

There are many other old laws in the UK which police regularly ignore, such as those which make it illegal to be drunk in a pub, honk your car horn aggressively or go sledging — none of which are implemented to full effect.