KNIVES, axes and a throwing star are just some of the weapons that have been handed in to police during a knife amnesty.

Collection bins have been placed across Hampshire as part of Operation Sceptre and the items pictured have been disposed by members of the public.

Police are encouraging owners to dispose of bladed articles without fear of punishment as part of an ongoing campaign to take knives off the streets.

Chief Inspector Claire Taylor, said: “After the first two weeks of this amnesty we have had 19 weapons handed in, in Southampton; that's 19 weapons off the street which can no longer be used to harm anybody.

"This amnesty will continue until July 20; this amnesty is your chance to hand unlawful weapons in and walk away without prosecution and be free from the fear you could be putting yours and your loved ones lives at risk.

“We know people carry knives for many reasons including fear, or because they think it will protect them. 

"However, in reality carrying a knife puts them at greater risk of being seriously injured or killed, not to mention being arrested for possession of a bladed article.

“I would urge you to take this opportunity to rid yourselves of any illegal weapons, as we are continually developing intelligence on those believed to be carrying knives or bladed articles. 

"We will take a robust approach to anyone found to be illegally in possession of a knife or bladed article on the streets.”