A firearms amnesty has already seen more than 100 weapons handed over to police in one week – including 18 shotguns and a crossbow.

Hertfordshire Constabulary started the amnesty on November 11, and up until yesterday had had 113 weapons handed in at police stations in Stevenage, Hatfield, Hoddeson and Watford.

Running until November 21, the national campaign enables members of the public to surrender firearms, anonymously if they wish, without fear of prosecution for firearms licensing offences.

Chief Supt Jane Swinburne said: “The amnesty has been very successful so far and we have managed to take a significant number of firearms out of public circulation. Gun crime is very low in Hertfordshire but as part of the national campaign to stop guns falling into the wrong hands, we are pleased to be able to offer a way for anyone with an unwanted firearm in their possession the opportunity to dispose of it safely.

“There is still time for people to surrender weapons and during the amnesty without fear of prosecution for firearms licensing offences. People who wish to keep their firearms can also call the helpline and our officers will help them to apply for the necessary certificates to ensure they are not breaking the law. I remind everybody that the amnesty finishes on Friday November 21, so all weapons must be surrendered before then.”

If you have a firearm in your possession that you either do not want, should not have or would like to discuss getting a certificate for, you should contact the police on 01707 806126 or email BedsandHertsFLU@herts.pnn.police.uk during the amnesty.

Specially trained officers will then arrange to come and collect the weapon, or advise you on how to apply for the required certificate.

For more information visit www.herts.police.uk/amnesty.