POLICE are holding a week of action to tackle knife crime which begins today.

There will be a mix of targeted enforcement work and education to promote the anti-knife message.

Activities include test purchase operations with Police Cadets to see if shops will sell knives to under 18s, working with bus companies, and and increased presence in hotspots for knife offences.

DCI Chris Gibson, Operational Knife Crime Lead, said: “In my role I see the terrible conse-quences knife crime can bring.

“It can have a devastating impact on the victim and their family but also the perpetrator and their loved ones. It can also cause great concern in local communities.

“Carrying a knife is never the answer – knives take lives and if you carry a knife you risk being sent to prison and increase your chances of being seriously injured or killed.”