A new knife amnesty bin has been unveiled on Canvey.

Any bladed weapons can be dropped into the new secure bin, which is located outside Canvey Police Station.

The installation of the amnesty bin was funded by the Essex Police Fire and Crime Commissioner and is being supported by Essex Police, Castle Point Community Safety Partnership and the Only Cowards Carry charity set up by Caroline Shearer in memory of her son Jay Whiston who was stabbed to death at a party in Colchester in September 2012.

Chief Inspector Glen Westley, district commander for Castle Point and Rochford, said: “This Knife Bin represents a safe, convenient and anonymous way for anyone to dispose of knives or similar items. Knives have no place on the streets of our District and I hope this new facility and will help to make our District that bit safer.

"And to local residents, if you have kitchen knives or sharp tools which you no longer need or use, please drop them into the knife bin to!"

Councillor Godfrey Isaacs, Castle Point Council cabinet member for neighbourhoods and safer communities, added: “I very much welcome the installation of the amnesty bin, and would urge anyone to dispose of a knife, whatever the reason they have it, in this safe and secure way”

An additional bin will also be installed in Rayleigh.