South Yorkshire Police have hailed the recovery of ten knives, three swords and a crossbow across Sheffield as a “fantastic success”.

The unit performed 50 weapon sweeps and 152 searches as part of the national anti-knife crime campaign, Operation Spectre, which is held twice every year.

Police units additionally seized 142 cannabis plants following four warrants, after conducting ten purchase tests.

During the campaign, which ran from 14-20 November, South Yorkshire police spoke with over 2,000 people across the city with the aim of reducing the amount of people involved in knife crime in the community.

Police officers visited seven schools which reached over 500 children and hosted 26 community meetings that engaged with a further 1,640 people.

Detective Superintendent David Cowley led Operation Spectre and said the focus of the campaign was engagement in the community to alert people of the dangers and consequences of carrying knives.

“Those who feel the need to carry knives in our communities are not only putting themselves at risk, but also other people, we are determined to get this message across.”

Assistant Chief Constable Rick Alton has assured members of the public that tackling knife crime is not only a focus during Operation Spectre but is also a year-round priority.

If you are concerned about knife crime, please contact the police on 101 to report any instances in your area.