MORE than 100 firearms have been handed in during the first week of a surrender campaign launched by police.

A total of 117 weapons have been handed over to police since the appeal was launched on Monday, November 13, along with a quantity of ammunition.

Residents have a further week to anonymously hand in weapons, with the surrender ending on Sunday, November 26.

Among the six specially designated stations in the Avon and Somerset area, the only one in South Gloucestershire is Patchway Police Centre.

Among those submitted, there were a number of historic items including a Walther P38 from World War Two, complete with what appears to be the original holster, has been surrendered.

The semi-automatic pistol, which was the service pistol of the Wehrmacht at the beginning of the war, is likely to have been a war trophy.

Also handed in was a Dreyse M1907 semi-automatic pistol, used by the Volkssturm and Volksgrenadier late in World War Two.

Fireams handed in with a historical interest will be transferred to the relevant institution, such as the National Firearms Centre at the Royal Armouries at Leeds.

Chief Inspector John Holt said: “We use various tactics to locate weapons that have fallen into the wrong hands – but we need the public’s help.

“We are delighted with the response so far but want as many weapons as possible and would continue to encourage people to hand them in this week.

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

“If you know where a weapon is being kept illegally, now is your chance to give up the gun, or tell us anonymously where it is. You will not be prosecuted for possession and you could save a life.”

Residents that are aware of people involved in illegal firearms are asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.