Police are looking to tackle knife crime in Stow by introducing amnesty bins.

Gloucestershire Constabulary is taking part in a national weapon surrender this week, with the aim of taking as many knives and other weapons off county streets as possible.

Known as Operation Sceptre, the two-week-long campaign began on Monday 8 November with six amnesty bins being placed at stations around the county, including in Stow.

The surrender will give the people a chance to anonymously dispose of any knife, weapon, firearm or ammunition with no questions asked.

Chief Inspector Carl Bourne said: "Many firearms and weapons in Gloucestershire are held in innocence and ignorance of their illegality or are simply just overlooked or forgotten in people’s homes.

"This campaign isn’t just targeted at people who are involved in criminal behaviour but also families and relatives who came across weapons - perhaps in a child's bedroom, or while clearing out somebody's home.

"The surrender will prevent weapons from doing damage or getting into the wrong hands while providing members of the community with a safe place to dispose of any knives or firearms they may have, whether held lawfully or unlawfully."

Deputy Police and Crime Commission Nick Evan added: “We want people to be safe on the streets of Gloucestershire.

"Taking dangerous weapons out of circulation will go a long way to ensure that happens, but I’m pleased to see the Constabulary going further to tackle the causes of violent crime.

Gloucestershire Constabulary are also sending Schoolbeat officers into schools to deliver talks to young people about violent crime to remind pupils of the risks of carrying knives.

Mr Evan said: "By working with young people, alongside our schools and charities, we can educate them about the dangers of such crimes and create opportunities for prevention and early intervention to stop young people being drawn into situations that escalate towards violence.”

People are advised to wrap knives in newspaper or cardboard and seal it with sticky tape.

Firearms meanwhile should be secured in a box or strong bag, separate from ammunition.

Authorised firearms officers will also be available to collect firearms for thoseunable to attend a police station.