Police in Cumbria have issued a warning to Pokemon Go players after officers dealt with a number of incidents relating to the game.

They are among hundreds of incidents reported to police nationally.

The augmented reality gaming app, which has become a global phenomenon, has proved hugely popular across the county since launching in the UK in July.

It sees players use a smartphone to catch the tiny monsters in real world settings. But it has also led to safety fears.

Now, Cumbria police have issued a warning to players across the county.

Information obtained by the News & Star shows that police dealt with nine Pokemon Go-related incidents or injuries locally between July 13 and August 9, immediately after the game was launched.

They include one assault, three reports of nuisance or antisocial behaviour, three reports of concerns for safety, and two suspicious incidents. They happened at locations across the county, including Carlisle, Whitehaven, Kendal and Barrow.

Inspector Jon Sherlock, of the force's Community Safety Unit, said: “The constabulary are aware of these incidents relating to Pokémon Go.

“We are keen to advise players to be aware of their surroundings when using this app. Please be aware of traffic, pedestrians, obstacles and private property whilst using your phone.

"Whilst we want people to enjoy themselves, we do not want to be responding to an incident where someone has been injured or has trespassed on private property.

“Elements of this game also allow users to attract other users to certain locations. This has obvious safety issues, so please be aware of your whereabouts and it is recommended that if you are going to areas you are unfamiliar with, you do this with friends.”

Police stressed that although one of the recorded incidents was an assault, Pokemon was not the main factor in this crime.

Incidents reported nationally include robberies, thefts, assaults and driving offences. Pokemon Go developers Niantic have urged players to "abide by local laws".