Almost 500 airguns have been handed in to police

The Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (Acpos) launched its "If you don't need it get shot of it" campaign at the end of March.

It followed the death of toddler Andrew Morton after he was shot with an airgun near his home in Easterhouse, Glasgow.

Police said the removal of 497 airguns was "encouraging" and urged the public to continue handing over weapons.

Deputy Chief Constable David Mellor, the secretary of the Acpos general policing business area, said: "It is good to see that Scottish people have taken to handing in weapons that could pose a threat to the safety of our communities.

"We hope to rid our streets of a great deal more."

He added: "Clearly firing air weapons in public places is illegal and extremely dangerous and police need to be aware of such behaviour in order to put a stop to it.

POLICE FORCE BREAKDOWN OF AIRGUNS HANDED OVER Fife Constabulary - 56 Central Scotland Police - 27 Dumfries and Galloway Police - 23 Grampian Police - 34 Lothian and Borders Police - 86 Northern Constabulary - 18 Strathclyde Police - 192 Tayside Police - 61

"I would also remind retailers of airguns of their responsibility. Breaking the law by selling to someone under 17 years of age could result in an extremely serious crime being committed."

Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson said: "It is very encouraging that so many law-abiding people have asked themselves whether they really need an airgun in their home, and have decided the answer is 'no'.

"I would urge other families to do the same."

Last week, Home Secretary Charles Clarke said he would announce the outcome of a review of airguns by July.

Mr Clarke said no option was ruled out - including a complete ban - but it is thought a more likely outcome is a strict licensing system.