Between today and March 17 unwanted knives and bladed items can be handed in at designated police stations including Bodmin, St Austell and, in Plymouth, Charles Cross and Crownhill, without fear of prosecution. Please check online for opening times before you make your journey - www.dc.police.uk/PEO

Knives of any description can be disposed of including illegal lock knives and “zombie” knives, samurai swords, kitchen knives, unwanted collectibles, replicas and ceremonial items.

Devon & Cornwall Police is supporting the week of action as part of the ongoing national Operation Sceptre which has the aims of combating knife crime and raising awareness about it.

The maximum penalty for an adult carrying a knife is four years in prison and an unlimited fine. You’ll get a prison sentence if you’re convicted of carrying a knife more than once.

Anyone who worries that a friend of relative is carrying a knife for no good reason can contact the police and let them know. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers completely anonymously on 0800 555111.

The law on knives, banned weapons and legitimate reasons for carrying a knife can be found on the Government’s website here: www.gov.uk/buying-carrying-knives Advice for young people aged 11-14 about carrying weapons can be found here: www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/youth/11-14/yrspace/weapons