Over 50 imitation guns handed in

Police have visited 31 schools to explain the dangers of replica guns

More than 50 imitation firearms have been handed in by members of the public during a month-long guns amnesty by Avon and Somerset police in June.

They included BB (ball bearing) guns, toy guns and a seven ft (2.13m) musket.

Fake and replica guns have been involved in 90% of all the incidents which have required armed police in the Avon and Somerset area.

The amnesty was organised as part of a campaign to highlight the dangers of possessing imitation firearms.

'Presents for children'

Police have been visiting secondary schools to explain the dangers to young people, who they say think that imitation weapons can provide self-protection.

Supt Andy Pullan said: "We find that imitation guns are often bought as presents for children and young people from car boot sales.

"But the use of these realistic looking weapons in public could result in children facing armed officers, putting themselves and others in real danger, and being arrested.

"Every firearm we take out of circulation is one less posing a danger to the public."