Thames Valley Police officers across Reading have been taking proactive steps against knife crime as today marks the beginning of SPECTRE week.

SPECTRE week is held by police forces across the country as an opportunity to share information about tackling knife crime.

The local neighbourhood team in Reading have been out and about in Courage Park in search of bladed objects and knives.

Parks and recreation grounds, which have hidden spaces, are often where police discover articles which could potentially pose a risk to members of the public.

A spokesperson from the Reading neighbourhood team were spotted in the park searching for potential hides and speaking to members of the community who may have intelligence of any incidents taking place.

Police have said that they are also keen to educate people about knife safety.

The local PCSO’s took to Coley Community Hub in a ‘HAVE YOUR SAY’ meeting to give residents from the area the opportunity to ask questions about knife crime, exploitation, stop searches, and getting help.

Members of the council housing and safer public realm department will also be in attendance.

To assist resident who may have dangerous articles on their home, amnesty bins have also been placed around Reading to allow people to dispose of knives and other items.

These can be found at Waitrose Car Park in Caversham, Cintra Park, Coley Park Community Centre, Kensington Park, Orts Road, Tilehurst Triangle , Chain Street and Reading Police Station.