AYRSHIRE police seized an axe, a sword and a cannister of pepper spray during a crackdown on weapons last week.

And the week-long crackdown led to nine people being arrested or reported in Ayrshire for allegedly carrying weapons.

The arrests included a 39-year-old man from Kilwinning, who was stopped in the town’s Byres Road around 5.25pm on June 22, for alleged possession of a knife. The axe was allegedly recovered during a routine vehicle check in Kilbirnie, when a 25-year-old man from Largs was arrested.

The weapons seized were put on display to highlight the work of officers in keeping people safe. Superintendent David Duncan, of Ayrshire Division, said: “Officers are committed to reducing violence across the streets of Ayrshire. Additional patrols will continue and those people carrying weapons will continue to be targeted.” Anyone with information on crime in local communities is encouraged to contact Police Scotland by calling 101 (always dial 999 in an emergency) or to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.