Police round up weapons

The weapons - which include an imitation sword, a machete, a CS gas canister and scores of flick knives - were either seized by officers or were handed in at the town's police station.

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Richard Allum said the recoveries were significant in keeping public place violence under control.

Latest police figures show that public place violence in Uckfield, Crowborough and the surrounding areas is down by nine per cent (a reduction of 17 crimes) between April and January compared to the previous year.

Insp Allum said: 'The recovery of these weapons and a reduction in street violence in North Wealden are not, in my opinion, unconnected.

'What it shows is that the streets are becoming safer and more offensive items are being taken out of circulation.'

Most of the weapons were handed in by members of the public but some were found by officers on individuals who have been stopped and searched since January 2002.

Insp Richard Allum: 'I am very pleased that these weapons have been taken off the streets of Uckfield during the last year. Taking a single offensive weapon off the streets is a positive step forward in keeping our communities safe.'

An amnesty box trial in Eastbourne introduced in December has already proved a success after screwdrivers and flick knives were surrendered.

Now Wealden police are actively looking to introduce a similar amnesty.