This amnesty is targeted at young people who have access to these weapons

Supt Alan Jones

Crime reduction manager Superintendent Alan Jones said: "The majority of these incidents involve children using air weapons or ball bearing guns.

"I cannot stress strongly enough that these weapons are not toys, and tremendous damage can be inflicted by them."

Police are also highlighting the demand on their resources when responding to reports of people illegally carrying imitation firearms or air weapons on the streets.

Those who hand in a weapon during the amnesty, which runs from 3 to 17 December, will not be prosecuted.

Secondary Schools on Merseyside have been asked to support the campaign, and specially designed posters will be used.

Those who leave their name and address will receive a �10 Virgin Megastore voucher for each gun given in.

'Injuries prevented'

Supt Jones said: "There are a huge amount of injuries which could be prevented.

"This amnesty is targeted at young people who have access to these weapons.

"We will also be asking parents to make sure that their child can't get hold of these weapons, and... discourage them from buying these for their children as Christmas presents."

The amnesty is also supported by the RSPCA, who are launching their own campaign this week.

Meanwhile Kent MP Jonathan Shaw is introducing a Private Members' Bill to raise the age at which youngsters can use air guns unsupervised from 14 to 18.