As part of the national Operation Sceptre initiative, the Mendip West beat team has been actively conducting knife sweeps in parks across Street and Glastonbury. This effort is aimed at finding and removing hidden weapons to ensure they are permanently off the streets. The operation, which spans from May 13 to May 19, involves proactive patrols by local PCSOs in several community spaces.

PCSOs 8919 Tim and 7912 Elaine were seen in the parks of the Street area, while PCSOs 8281 Donna and 9853 Leann focused their efforts around the skate park in Wells City. Residents are encouraged to approach the beat team during their patrols to learn more about their work and community safety initiatives.

This local action is part of a broader week of intensified efforts by Avon and Somerset Police to combat the rise in knife crime, which has seen a 13% increase in assaults involving knives in the last quarter of 2023 alone. The national campaign, led by the National Police Chief's Council (NPCC), involves all 43 police forces across England and Wales and includes education sessions, targeted searches, and community engagement activities.

Chief Inspector Mike Vass, Avon and Somerset Police's Force Lead for Knife Crime, stressed the importance of community involvement: "In recent months and years, we have seen a number of lives needlessly and senselessly cut short by knife crime, devastating families and communities. We are committed to safeguarding the public by actively enforcing laws to deter knife carrying, disrupting criminal activities, and holding perpetrators accountable."

The local teams are also promoting the use of weapon surrender bins, with two new units recently installed in Bristol, bringing the total to 19 across the force area. These bins provide a safe way for individuals to dispose of knives and reduce the associated risks.

Residents of Street, Glastonbury, and the surrounding areas are urged to support these initiatives and contribute to creating safer communities. For those concerned about someone they know carrying a knife, information can be provided anonymously to Fearless, the dedicated youth service for Crimestoppers.

For more information on how to report concerns or to engage with local police efforts, visit the Avon and Somerset Police official website or contact their non-emergency number. In cases of immediate danger, always call 999.