Durham Constabulary is joining with other police forces around the country in support of the message #StopKnifeCrime.

Operation Sceptre is a national week of action (February 12-16) against knife crime and aims to highlight the risks that carrying a bladed weapon can bring, as well as targeting offenders who use and carry knives.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Gray from Durham Constabulary, said: “Thankfully, County Durham and Darlington is a safe place to live and knife crime here is low, however public safety is an ongoing commitment and we want to take as many weapons off the streets as possible.

“Carrying knives or other weapons does not keep you safe. By carrying a knife you are putting yourself in much greater danger and are more likely to become involved in a violent situation, potentially getting injured yourself. This is the key message which we want to emphasise this week.

“We are proud to support this national initiative which will help raise awareness about the damage and destruction that knives can cause to victims and their families.

“There is no place for knife crime on the streets of our county and if you do carry a knife illegally, rest assured we will be doing everything in our power to catch you and see justice is served.”

Those who carry a knife or bladed item could face a custodial sentence. Join in the conversation online using the hashtag #StopKnifeCrime