WEST Mercia Police have launched a knife surrender campaign to encourage members of the public to hand-in unwanted knives.

The initiative, named Operation Sceptre, is led by the Home Office to help continue ongoing efforts to tackle knife crime.

Throughout the week officers will be working to raise awareness of the dangers of carrying a knife and speaking to children and young people where possible.

Surrender bins will be in place at Hereford, Redditch, Worcester, Kidderminster, Malinsgate and Monkmoor Police Stations where any unwanted knife or bladed weapon can be deposited.

West Mercia Police’s knife crime lead and head of local policing, Chief Superintendent Paul Moxley, said: "Fortunately, we do not experience the same levels of knife crime in our towns and cities as we have seen in other parts of the country, however that doesn’t mean we are complacent.

"We know it does happen and it is vital we take the appropriate steps to prevent young people from carrying a knife and prevent crimes involving knives.

“We have increased the number of officers in our teams who specifically take on an early intervention and intervention role with children and young people across the force area.

"I firmly believe early intervention is crucial in deterring young people from becoming involved in a knife culture."

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Anyone who is concerned a young person is involved in knife crime and carrying a knife can report this anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.