Over 1,400 weapons recovered, and 15,000 young people spoken to in week of knife crime action

The week-long initiative, delivered in partnership with Lancashire Police and other local agencies, demonstrated the county’s dedication to tackling knife crime.

During the week, 331 stop and searches were carried out, seven search warrants were executed, and 90 arrests were made.

Officers from Lancashire Constabulary engaged directly with the public through mobile police stations stationed in busy commuter and shopping areas, while a knife arch was deployed at key transport hubs to deter weapon carrying.

Workshops and assemblies were held in schools, colleges, youth clubs, and other community settings, aiming to challenge attitudes towards knife carrying, explore the devastating consequences of violence, and empower young people to make positive choices. These sessions were brought to life by individuals who shared their personal experience with knife crime. Hearing real stories made the dangers and consequences of carrying a knife hit home, showing how early support and guidance can help steer young people away from violence.

Trading Standards collaborated with police to visit 70 retail stores, testing compliance with knife sale laws by using underage volunteers. 27 stores failed, highlighting the continued need for education and enforcement around responsible knife sales.

Chief Inspector Dave Oldfield, Operational Lead for Lancashire VRN, commented on the results: “Sceptre isn’t just about enforcement – it is about prevention, education, and building trust. The recovery of over 1,400 knives and the engagement of more than 15,000 young people shows the significant strides we are making. But the work doesn’t stop here. By continuing to collaborate and address the root causes of knife crime, we can make communities safer for everyone.”

Lancashire’s 23 knife surrender bins provided a safe way for individuals to dispose of dangerous weapons and contributed to a significant number of knives recovered during the week. Full list of bins can be found here.

Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said: “Carrying or using knives is completely unacceptable and unnecessarily puts lives at risk. Tackling serious violence will be a key priority in my Police and Crime Plan for Lancashire and I will ensure that Lancashire Police have the tools and resources they need to tackle this issue head on.”

“Policing can’t deal with knife crime in isolation and education has a key part to play in reducing the number of people carrying knives. Working with charities like our Football Community Trusts as we are doing through our Violence Reduction Network, is a fantastic opportunity to engage with young people across Lancashire. Anything we can do to prevent knife crime is positive for Lancashire and ultimately makes our county safer.”