An amnesty for knives is being offered across the county.

The amnesty will run between Monday, March 11 and Sunday, March 17, during which any unwanted knives can be surrendered to the police anonymously and without fear of prosecution for possession of these items.

Knife related crime has been increasing across the country, including Hertfordshire, in recent years and the amnesty is being carried out to support the national campaign to reduce the number of knives in circulation.

During the amnesty, any knives in your possession that you do not want or should not have can be surrendered at one of the following police stations: Hatfield, Stevenage or Watford.

A temporary knife bin will also be in place at Sainsbury in Potters Bar on Tuesday, March 12 between 3pm and 5pm and at the Furzefield Centre in Potters Bar on Wednesday, March 13 between 3.30pm and 5.30pm.

There will also be permanent knife surrender bins in Waltham Cross details of which can be found at www.herts.police.uk/amnesty.

Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd said: “Violent crime remains relatively low in Hertfordshire, and previous amnesties have been very effective in reducing the number of knives in circulation.

“We are developing new initiatives to help young people understand that carrying a knife is not acceptable, is illegal and you are more likely to be injured or arrested if you choose to carry one.

“The amnesties are now a regular part of our violent crime reduction plan, and any knives that can be taken off of our streets will help to make everyone safer.”