PEOPLE in Redditch are being encouraged to give up their unwanted knives in a week long knife surrender.

A knife bin is in the public area of the police station giving people the opportunity to dispose of unwanted knives anonymously, with no questions asked.

During the week, which runs until Sunday, September 22, people disposing of a knife will not have to give their personal details and will not face prosecution for carrying them.

However, if it is thought the knife has been used in a criminal offence police will seek to carry out an investigation.

The aim of the knife surrender, which is a national initiative, is to help prevent unwanted knives from getting into the wrong hands and being used in crime.

In support of the surrender, throughout the week local teams Worcestershire will be carrying out warrants, utilising stop and search powers along with carrying out enhanced patrols in hotspot areas and community weapon sweeps.

West Mercia Police assistant chief constable Martin Evans, said: “The areas we cover are some of the safest and the number of knife related incidents are low compared to other areas but it is important we do all we can to reduce the number even more.

“We know the devastating impact of knife crime, we know if someone carries a knife it is more likely to be used on them and they are more likely to get stabbed. Knives are the most common weapon used in killings of young people and our work to stop young people in our communities from carrying them is relentless."