Knives can be dropped in bins for two weeks

Knives and other offensive weapons can be put in bins at police stations until the end of October, without fear of further action.

Samurai swords were among the 445 weapons deposited in the first week.

Assistant Chief Constable Mick Creedon said: "That is fantastic news as it means that fewer weapons could fall into the hands of criminals."

Last year there were 501 people arrested for illegally carrying knives or offensive weapons in the county.

Number of weapons handed in to date in each area Glossop - 51 Matlock - 40 Derby - 39 Chesterfield - 28 Heanor - 27 Long Eaton - 23 Buxton - 18 Ilkeston - 16 Chapel-en-le-Frith - 8

Mr Creedon said: "This amnesty is part of the force's ongoing campaign to tackle violent crime.

"We want to try and clear our streets of knives and other weapons that can cause serious injury."

He repeated the police pledge to "deal with" people who continue to carry a weapon in the county.

There is a risk of four years in prison or a �5,000 fine for carrying weapons such as flick knives or knuckle dusters, or two years in prison or a fine for any knife. Only pocket knives with a blade of less than three inches are allowed.

Carrying any offensive weapon or bladed article on school premises carries a maximum penalty of four years in prison or a fine.