IT will be a criminal offence to possess a “zombie-style” knife or machete from midnight on September 24.

These items are being added to the list of prohibited offensive weapons under the Criminal Justice Act 1988, along with a ban on their manufacture, importation, sale, and supply.

Zombie-style knives and machetes are defined as weapons with blades over eight inches (20cm) in length that normally have a serrated cutting edge.

On Avon and Somerset Police’s knife crime information page, they say: “You are 50 per cent more likely to be hurt if you carry a knife. Carrying a knife does not keep you safe. Often, carrying a knife into a conflict only escalate things.”

To help the public comply the law change, the Home Office has launched a surrender and compensation scheme running from August 26 to September 23. During this period, you can surrender any zombie-style knife or machete to the police and claim compensation. After September 24, possessing these items could lead to criminal prosecution.

Chief Inspector Mike Vass urges anyone in possession of these weapons to surrender them before the law takes effect: “These items can have tragic consequences in the wrong hands. Please do the right thing and ensure they are surrendered safely.”

For more information on the surrender scheme, including compensation eligibility and FAQs, visit: www.gov.uk/government/publications/compensation-scheme-for-zombie-knives-and-machetes

Before you surrender a knife or machete:

Surrendered items can be taken to the following Avon and Somerset Police stations in Bath and North East Somerset:

Individuals can anonymously dispose of any knives and bladed articles all year round using the permanent surrender bins. For more information on these and advice on how to keep safe from knife crime, visit: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/crime-prevention-advice/protect-yourself-and-others-from-knife-crime/