POLICE have been scouring country lanes and woodland in the search for lethal bladed weapons.

Cheshire Police is supporting a national campaign aimed at keeping knives off the streets and educate young people about the dangers of carrying bladed weapons.

Running throughout this week, Operation Sceptre aims to reduce the impact of knife crime in communities.

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This week, Wilmslow Police searched footpaths at the end of Church Terrace, Lower Meadow Road and down the side of the old Mermaid Pub.

Knutsford Guardian: Police are searching tunnels and lanes for weapons as part of a campaign to tackle knife crimePolice are searching tunnels and lanes for weapons as part of a campaign to tackle knife crime (Image: Cheshire Police)

Cheshire continues to have one of the lowest rates of knife crime nationally, with recent figures showing a 2.4 per cent decrease in the 12 months to March 2023 compared to the previous year.

However, the force remains determined to further reduce the number of bladed weapons carried in the county following a recent rise in possession offences – a result of officers taking a more proactive stop and search approach.

People are urged to be vigilant and report any suspicions of knife crime to the police.

Anyone with information should call Cheshire Police on 101, get in touch at orlo.uk/JZ8Hf or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at orlo.uk/3tMq4

Knutsford Guardian: Police are scouring woodland and country paths as part of a campaign to tackle knife crimePolice are scouring woodland and country paths as part of a campaign to tackle knife crime (Image: Cheshire Police)

A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: “Fortunately, incidents involving knives are very rare in Wilmslow but they could still happen.

“So if you have any intelligence about anyone carrying a knife, it is important that you report it.

“Your information could help save a life.”