Wiltshire Police have completed a week of intensive activity aimed at reducing knife crime, carrying out weapon sweeps, school visits and test-purchase operations across the county.
The campaign, known nationally as Sceptre, blends education, prevention and enforcement. Over the week, neighbourhood officers undertook 23 weapon sweeps, held 11 education sessions and visited retailers in six towns to check whether stores were correctly applying the Challenge 25 age-verification policy when selling knives.
Supported by police cadets, officers visited a wide mix of shops – from big-name chains to small independents – to remind staff of the importance of following the law, particularly when dealing with potentially dangerous items.
In Trowbridge, seven stores were checked. Two failed to carry out the required age-verification check, meaning knives were sold without confirming the buyer was over 18. Staff were given immediate advice and Trading Standards will be informed so that further action can be considered.
Chief Insp Steve Jolly, who led the operation in Wiltshire, said the checks are essential in preventing serious harm.
“Test purchasing helps us work with local businesses to strengthen compliance and keep people safe,” he said. “Knives sold unlawfully can quickly find their way into the hands of young people, increasing the risk of harm within our communities. I’d like to thank the stores that passed for their responsible approach, and our cadets for their professionalism throughout.”
The weapon sweeps, carried out with the help of staff and volunteers, involved searching open areas, hedgerows and footpaths using metal detectors and search poles. One sweep in Chippenham took place at Donkey Fields, an area close to local secondary schools.
Alongside enforcement, police also delivered 11 sessions in primary and secondary schools, speaking to pupils about the dangers of carrying knives and the consequences that follow.
Chief Insp Jolly said that while Wiltshire experiences comparatively low levels of knife-related crime, the force is determined not to let complacency creep in.
“We tackle knife crime year-round, but focused activity like this helps ensure the issue stays front of mind for both retailers and the wider public. Everyone has a role to play in preventing knives ending up where they shouldn’t.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said strong education and early intervention remain essential.
“Wiltshire may have low knife-crime figures compared to other areas, but our priority is to keep them low. It is disappointing that two of the seven retailers in Trowbridge failed to uphold Challenge 25, but these checks expose weaknesses and ensure responsibilities are understood.
“Tackling knife crime isn’t just a policing issue. It demands ongoing education, engagement and enforcement working side by side. I will continue to push for the right resources so we can confront the harm knife crime causes to families and communities.”
