Knife campaign kicks off in North Solihull

CAMPAIGN: Officers carried out routine checks at Solihull College today.

POLICE officers have been at Solihull College's Woodlands Campus today, as part of a region-wide initiative to crack down on knife crime.
Officers from the Smith's Wood neighbourhood team were at the college this morning, carrying out routine weapons checks.
The force will also be working to educate students about the dangers of carrying a knife and the tragic consequences which can ensue.
Later in the day, PC Terri Discenza visited Resorts World, at the NEC, where she reminded retailers about the legislation relating to selling blades to underage customers.
Superintendent Keith Fraser said: "This is a chance for us to really highlight the dangers involved with carrying a knife, even if it’s just for protection.
"A lot of this activity is part of our daily business, however it always helps to have a really focused, concerted effort to target one issue.   We also want to provide reassurance to our communities who we know have some real concerns around knife crime, following a number of high profile crimes earlier this year.
"To be clear, there is no excuse to carry a knife. Knife crime can be utterly devastating and if you are found illegally in possession of a knife you will be arrested and brought to justice."
The week-long campaign will also see the promotion of so-called surrender bins, which will be set up around the West Midlands for people to dispose of weapons.