A knife and machete amnesty is continuing in Cumbria.

The initiative comes ahead of new legislation set to make possession of zombie-style knives or machetes illegal.

The Surrender and Compensation Scheme, launched in August, allows legal owners to hand over their weapons to police and claim compensation.

The scheme will run until September 23, with police stations across Cumbria accepting the weapons.

The change in law, effective from September 24, will expand the classification of zombie knives and grant police the authority to seize and destroy these weapons.

Eligible knives and machetes can be handed into police stations until September 23Eligible knives and machetes can be handed into police stations until September 23 (Image: Potter, Sarah)

The new regulations apply to bladed weapons with a plain cutting edge, a sharp pointed end, and a blade longer than 8 inches, which also have one or more of the following: a serrated cutting edge over two inches long, more than one hole in the blade, spikes, or more than two sharp points in the blade.

Those found in possession of such weapons after September 24 could face prosecution.

Eligible knives and machetes can be handed in at the following police stations until September 23: Carlisle Durranhill Station, Workington Station, Barrow Station, and Kendal Station.

The opening hours vary, with some stations open from 8am to 6pm on weekdays and Saturdays, and others with reduced hours.

Important information for those attending a station includes the requirement to bring photo identification to participate in the surrender and compensation scheme.

Police advise that weapons should be transported from the owner's address directly to the police station in a private vehicle.

The item must be wrapped in a sealed bag or box, remaining covered and out of sight during transportation to avoid causing alarm in or around police stations.