A MACHETE and samurai swords were among 300 knives surrendered during a week-long police amnesty.

Unwanted bladed weapons could be discarded anonymously and with no questions into special bins at Bolton Central Police Station in Scholey Street, Bolton, and several other major police stations across Greater Manchester.

The campaign, named Bin The Blade, ran between November 21 and 27 and the resulting haul included kukri knives – a Nepalese knife with an inwardly curved blade – as well as kitchen knives, chef’s knives, serrated bread knives and decorative swords — all of which have the potential to become deadly weapons if they fell into the wrong hands.

Chief Inspector Debbie Dooley said: “During this one week alone, more than 300 knives were surrendered by members of the public, meaning there are fewer weapons on the streets that could potentially fall into the wrong hands.

“We’re pleased so many people took the opportunity to safely dispose of their bladed items and would like to thank the community for helping us to reduce knife crime and make the streets safer, which will ultimately save lives.”

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Jim Battle said: “There has been a fantastic response from the public to this campaign and I want to say thank you. Your support has led to the surrender of more than 300 knives.” All the knives will be donated to the British Ironworks Centre, where they will be melted down and transformed into a statue in memory to those who have lost their life to knife crime.