Knife among items found by officers using a metal detector after concerns from locals
A large knife has been recovered in Swindon by police and volunteer teams using a metal detector
It was found as part of an operation to disrupt drug dealing and drug related violence.
It followed reports of incidents in the Penhill and Pinehurst areas.
Neighbourhood Inspector for Stratton, Central Swindon, North and West Swindon, Carly Nesbitt said: "This operation was following on from the work of the Parish Council who have been active in maintaining the open space areas in this part of Central Swindon North.
"We were able to remove a clearly dangerous weapon off the streets, as well as some other significant items.
"I hope this kind of activity reassures the community that we are not just being reactive but also proactive in our attempts to have an impact on illegal activities.
"The operation was also another great opportunity to be a visible presence in the locality, and I would like to thank the volunteers who thoroughly enjoyed their day and took pride in maintaining the safety and appearance of the areas.
"It was encouraging to see that there were also locations that did not return as many results as we may have expected, which is incredibly positive and shows that there is a collective impact where it matters."
On Saturday (17/10) officers from the Stratton, Central Swindon North and West Swindon Neighbourhood Policing Team were joined by volunteers to scour areas of Penhill and Pinehurst with the help of a metal detector.
Among what was discovered included a 16-inch blade zombie style knife, crossbow bolts and discarded phones.