SCORES of lethal knives, swords and other weapons have been handed to police during an amnesty in Crewe and Nantwich.

Among the haul surrendered by members of the public, was a Lord of the Rings-style weapon which officers say they were particularly glad to take off the streets.

One was a double bladed dagger with a central handle. Crewe Detective Sergeant Dave Jones said: 'It was brought into Nantwich police station by a man who had found it. We can't think of any reasonable use for it, and it would make a formidable weapon. In fact, it is similar to one which was used in a murder in Middlewich.'

The other, handed in at Crewe, was a large broad-bladed sword with a spiked end.

More than 100 weapons have been handed in so far.

At Crewe they have included two swords, three kukris - knives used by Gurkha soldiers - hunting knives and machetes.

At Nantwich, the haul also included a machete as well as sheath knives and knives from the Second World War.

Police across the UK are urging people to take the opportunity to dispose of offensive weapons during the campaign - which runs until June 30 -without fear of prosecution.

They warn knife carriers, many of whom are under 18, that they risk being stabbed or slashed themselves if their own blade is turned on them.

Knife amnesty red bins have been placed in reception at Crewe and Nantwich police stations. Both have received several large kitchen and garden knives.

Anyone found carrying a knife or other offensive weapon faces a fine and up to four years in prison.

Inspector Sue Fraser, head of the Crewe Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: 'We have been surprised by how many knives have come in. This amnesty has coincided with a number of stabbing incidents across the country. Some of them have been fatal, and they may have influenced people.'