THIS is the haul of knives handed in to police during an amnesty in Newton and Earlestown.

Almost 400 knives were handed in to police stations on Merseyside during the first week of the National Knife Amnesty.

In St Helens alone, 45 knives and blades and a crossbow are now safely out of circulation.

Police are urging people to use the opportunity to bin their knives and avoid prosecution.

Specially designed bins are located at Newton Police Station, open from 9am to 4pm, seven days a week.

Superintendent John Martin said: "We are very pleased with the response so far, as every knife or weapon handed in is one which cannot fall into the wrong hands on the streets of St Helens."

Anyone who would like to hand in knives should use the following advice so that if stopped by police they are able to show that the only reason they have the knife is to hand it in.

l If possible close up any blades and use a knife sheath if you have one.

l Carefully wrap all blades in cardboard or similar and securely tape them up.

l Ensure you know where the amnesty bin is before you leave home and go directly there.

Supt Martin added: "You will not be arrested for making a genuine trip to an amnesty bin and you should not be fearful of going into the police station to hand in your weapon - it is an anonymous process. Your details will not be taken and if you find your knife or blade is too big to fit in the bin, simply hand it to a police officer at the front desk."

Anyone who has information on those who carry knives or those who are responsible for knife-related crime is asked to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.