ANOTHER North-East police force is urging people to hand in weapons in a week-long firearms amnesty.

The Northumbria force is asking people to surrender unlawfully held or unwanted guns and ammunition following a recent change in firearms legislation.

It began at 8am today (Monday November 24) and runs until 8am next Monday (December 1).

Anyone handing in weapons or ammunition in that period will not face prosecution for any illegal possession.

People are also being urged to hand in replica firearms, ball-bearing guns and air weapons, as well as imitation weapons and antiques, to prevent them falling into the wrong hands and being used to commit crime.

It is the latest amnesty among police forces, including Durham and Cleveland in recent weeks, in support of a national crackdown.

Assistant Chief Constable Winton Keenen said: “Northumbria doesn’t have the same issue with firearms as some other areas of the country.

“Serious crimes involving firearms don’t happen very often.

“However, with the recent change in legislation, there was a national agreement that an amnesty would be an appropriate way of removing weapons from circulation.

“Similar amnesties are being held right across the country and we’re taking part to encourage people to hand in weapons to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands.

“It gives people the opportunity to safely dispose of firearms with peace of mind in a secure environment.”

Items can be handed in at police stations in each area, Gilbridge in Sunderland, Millbank at South Shields, High Street West in Gateshead, Middle Engine Lane in North Tyneside, Etal Lane in Newcastle and Bedlington in Northumberland.

Further information is available on 101, extension 69191.