Calls were made today for a change in the law after a city centre shop was found selling samurai swords, serrated hunting knives and replica guns from as little as £5.

Barkers, on Sunbridge Road, is displaying dozens of knives, swords and guns alongside children's art sets and Christmas lights.

Trading Standards chiefs said the weapons can be sold legally although there are age restrictions.

Signs displayed alongside the blades read "big knives £10, small knives £5" and "all samurai swords were £100 - now £40".

The store's manager declined to comment when the Telegraph & Argus asked why he was selling the weapons, although another sign in the window says they will only be sold to over-18s.

But Councillor David Ward (Lib Dem, Idle and Thackley) has asked for an investigation. He said: "I was horrified when I saw the display which includes knives which can only be used as offensive weapons.

"They certainly would be no use in the kitchen or for DIY. There is also an air gun and an air rifle and a very convincing replica firearm." He added: "It is also against the law to market a knife in a way which 'indicates or suggests that it is suitable for combat, or is likely to stimulate or encourage violent behaviour'.

"As a lay person I think that these knives fall into this category just by being in the window of the shop."

Bradford Police's City Centre Inspector, Steve Baker, admitted there was little his officers could do about the sale under the present law, but warned anyone buying them was likely to be breaking the law once they set foot outside the shop.

He said: "Legally shops are entitled to sell these things. The owners have been spoken to and have agreed to take some of the more contentious items off display.

"But it does not look good for our city if these items are being sold - these shopkeepers do have a responsibility."