HALTON will be a Samurai sword-free zone by the end of 2007.

Government proposals will ban the import and sale of the weapons.

Last year, five Samurai swords were handed in to police in Widnes as part of a region-wide crackdown on knife-wielding thugs.

Cheshire's knife amnesty saw nearly 2,000 dangerous weapons taken off the streets. Widnes Neighbourhood Policing Unit Inspector Nick Bailey said he was 'encouraged' by the response from Widnesians, who handed over weapons including machetes, combat knives, swords and 'ornamental' knives.

Now the Government is keen to continue the momentum and the proposals will help to take dangerous weapons out of circulation.

Banning Offensive Weapons - A Consultation recommends replica Samurai swords should be added to the offensive weapons order.

There have been about 80 serious crimes involving imitation Samurai swords in England and Wales over the past four years.

Those who breach the prohibition would face up to six months in prison and a maximum fine of £5,000. Carrying a Samurai sword in a public place already carries a maximum jail sentence of four years.

At present there are 17 weapons, including knuckle-dusters and batons, on the offensive weapons order.

ian.cheveau @cheshirenews.co.uk