More than 800 knives were handed in during the second week

More than 800 knives were put into bins outside stations compared with more than 400 in the previous week.

Ch Insp Mark Harrison said the response had "surpassed expectations" and the message was getting through that every knife handed in could save a life.

People have until 30 June to hand in knives at police stations across Kent without fear of being prosecuted.

Kent Police said 405 knives were handed in during the first week, and 811 in the second, bringing the total to 1,216.

Weapons handed in included two extendable batons, a samurai sword, and an antique miniature flintlock gun with six bullets.

Mr Harrison said: "Anyone who carries a knife or weapon should think carefully about why they do this and hand it in safely.

"The amnesty is continuing for a further three weeks.

"I'm confident we'll receive many more knives and weapons because the public support for this amnesty is clearly very strong."