A TOTAL of 3,774 knives and other weapons were handed in to Kent Police during a five week long amnesty.

In the last week of the amnesty alone 1,564 knives and weapons were placed in special red collection bins at police stations and other locations across the county.

Kent Police say they are delighted with the response from the public to the amnesty, which was launched on May 24.

Chief Insp Mark Harrison, who co-ordinated the amnesty described it as "phenomenal".

The first week saw 464 knives and weapons handed in, 752 in the second week, 501 in the third week and 493 in the fourth week, before the amnesty ended with 1,564 knives and weapons handed in during the final week.

Chief Insp Harrison said: "When we began this amnesty we hoped that over the five weeks of the campaign we would see as many knives and weapons handed in as our officers seize from the county’s streets each year – which is around 1,000.

"But, the public response has surpassed our expectations. It is clear that the message has got through - every knife off the streets potentially saves a life."

Kent Police say carrying a knife or weapon for protection is illegal and anyone found with an offensive weapon in a public place can face up to six months imprisonment and/or a £5,000 fine.