Police seized ‘numerous’ knives and an estimated £23,000-worth of drugs during a week-long crime crackdown in Slough.

As part of national knife crime week, which ended November 21, Thames Valley Police arrested 11 people and visited six to ‘support and divert them away from knife crime’ in the town.

As well as seizing class A and B drugs, they also took £50,000 worth of assets from drug dealers in what was dubbed ‘Operation Sceptre’.

Chief Inspector Chris Young, tactical lead for knife crime, said: “Operation Sceptre is part of our ongoing proactive work to reduce knife crime across the Thames Valley.

Read more: Police cordon after knife is found in Slough car park

“This work demonstrates our continued efforts to deliver a number of activities to reduce the threat of knife crime, protect our local communities and raise awareness of the dangers involved.

“Part of our work on this operation has involved an increased police presence in our communities, with officers engaging with the public and disrupting crime throughout the week of action.”

A total of 70 blades were taken off people in Berkshire.

“It is great to see that the public have supported this campaign so positively, helping us to tackle knife crime and I would encourage local communities to continue to safely dispose of their knives via our knife amnesty bins throughout the year.”

Read more: 'Unwell' knifeman gets out of unpaid work after court revokes community service

Detective Superintendent Stan Gilmour, director of the Thames Valley Violence Reduction Unit, said: “With every Operation Sceptre we seek to raise awareness across our communities of the dangers of knives.

“While the police continue to take action to tackle those who carry weapons, we all – right across our communities – have a role to play in keeping each other safe.

“If you have concerns that someone is vulnerable and may be drawn into crime or carrying a knife, speak to someone – the police, school, any trusted professional – let’s get them the right support and prevent future tragedies.”

To report a knife related crime to the Police, use their website or call 101.

Always dial 999 in an emergency if there is an immediate danger to life.