'Spectre' knife crime week run by Wiltshire Police

The force ran prevention, education, engagement and enforcement activities to demonstrate that there is “no place for knife crime on the streets.”

During the week, 30 knives and bladed articles were surrendered, 51 weapons sweeps were conducted, 32 stop searches were conducted, 26 awareness sessions were held in schools and within the community.

A new permanent knife surrender bin was installed in Devizes at the Wiltshire Football Association Headquarters – the first outside Swindon.

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County superintendent Doug Downing said: “Sceptre provides all police forces with a great opportunity to shine a light on the year-round work they do on the dangers associated with knife crime, so that hopefully people never make the decision to carry a weapon.

“Across the week, hundreds of our young people were educated on the dangers of carrying knives. We know that some young people carry knives out of fear, thinking they will be safer, but we know that statistically that is not the case.

“You are much more likely to be the victim of a knife attack if you have made the decision to carry a knife yourself.

“We must remember that Wiltshire remains a very safe county to live in and we are fully committed to keeping it safe.”

Police and crime commissioner Philip Wilkinson added: "Knife crime has a devastating effect on victims, their families and the wider community and I continue to be concerned that public perception, and particularly the perception of young people isn’t reflective of the reality in Wiltshire and Swindon and perpetuates further crime.

“Reducing serious violence and harm is a key priority in my Police and Crime and Plan, and I know Chief Constable Roper shares my commitment to driving down violence in our communities.”