More than 1,100 knives seized in week-long crackdown

Paul Burnell
BBC News, Lancashire
Lancashire Constabulary Two community support officers in full uniform stand by a dark grey knife binLancashire Constabulary
Operation Grip is a separate campaign tackling violent crime

More than 1,100 knives were recovered in a week-long initiative to tackle knife in parts of Lancashire.

Some 1,173 knives were taken off the streets in an operation officers hailed as yielding "good results" in the east of the country.

The scheme, called Sceptre Week, targeted people who carry dangerous weapons on the streets and aimed to raise awareness of the consequences, while also engaging with schools and shops.

Sgt Mick Johnson said: "There is nothing good that can come from carrying a knife. They are dangerous, and by carrying one, you put yourself at greater risk of harm."

Swords, cleavers and a variety of knives were collected when officers emptied six knife amnesty bins.

Police also carried out test purchases to check if shopkeepers were complying with legislation, and 217 street searches took place.

Officers also visited schools to give a range of talks.

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