AIR rifles, an antique musket, an empty tear-gas grenade and a crossbow are just some of the items handed to Wiltshire Police during a two-week national firearms surrender, which finished yesterday (Sunday, November 26).

More than 260 items were collected, which is two and a half times the number handed in during the last surrender in 2015.

The items surrendered include 39 air rifles, 51 shotguns, 12 revolvers, one antique musket, a crossbow, a deactivated AK-47, handguns, starting pistols and BB guns, as well as ammunition.

Some firearms were inherited service weapons from World War One and Two, including an empty tear-gas grenade from World War One.

The majority of the firearms collected will be destroyed, and Wiltshire Police has established contacts with weapon museums, so some of the antique items are likely to be passed to them for display.

Inspector Barry Hickman, said: "We're really pleased with the response we've had from the public and by the number of weapons we've had handed in - it means there are now 260 fewer firearms within the communities of Wiltshire.

"There were a mix of weapons handed in. However most of the items surrendered were shotguns and air rifles, which is what we expect in a rural county.

"Many of the firearms are old and cobweb-covered which have been in people's possession for some time. Those handing in firearms to us have been really pleased they could do so through this surrender, giving them the opportunity to dispose of the weapons safely.

"The fight against gun crime is stronger than ever and we are working with partners and our local communities to safeguard, educate and intervene at the earliest opportunity.

"One weapon off the streets is one less that can be used to harm or threaten our communities."

Many firearms are held in innocence of their illegality or may be overlooked or forgotten in people's homes.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, Angus Macpherson, said: "I would like to applaud Wiltshire Police for this welcome initiative, and the people who have come forward and surrendered unlicensed or unwanted firearms.

"Their responsible attitude has helped to make Wiltshire a safer place by removing the risk of the firearms getting into the wrong hands or being accidentally fired.

"Wiltshire is one of the safest counties in the country and this campaign will help to keep it that way."