A FIREARMS amnesty will be held in major Cumbria towns, giving anyone a chance to anonymously hand in a gun without any repercussions.

From May 12 to May 29, members of the public can hand in firearms in Barrow, Kendal, Workington, Whitehaven, Carlisle and Penrith.

And a knife amnesty will be held simultaneously from May 16 to May 22.

Firearms legislation is regularly updated, for example in March 2021 Antique Firearms Regulations came into effect on and provide a statutory definition of ‘antique firearm’. Some things that were classed as antiques now require a firearm or shotgun certificate.

 

Chief Inspector Gill Cherry said: "Every weapon that is handed into police is one less in circulation that could fall into the wrong hands. The potential disastrous consequences of these weapons underline the need for those who do not want them to hand them in.

"I would urge people to take this opportunity to hand in any weapons, it may be an old kitchen knife, or a firearm that has been sat in you loft. Any weapon in the wrong hands can have a devastating impact. It is no exaggeration to say that each one we retrieve has the potential to save a life.

"It might just be the best decision you ever make."

Anyone wishing to hand in weapons should put them in a box or strong bag and put ammunition in a separate box or bag. Never attempt to take an uncovered weapon out in public.

Members of the public are also advised to go directly to a designated station when handing in a weapon.

Authorised firearms officers will be available to collect firearms from those who are unable to attend a police station. For further details in arranging the collection of your firearm or ammunition contact police by report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it, via our live chat or speak to an office on 101.