Officer from Lancashire Police have visited Preston’s College as part of a campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of carrying a knife.

On Wednesday 4 March, the neighbourhood policing teams visited the college with a knife arch, which scans individuals as they walk through it. Over 1,500 learners attended throughout the morning, with no significant issues identified.

Learners also heard about the potential consequences of carrying and using a bladed weapon.

Preston’s College principal and chief executive, Dr Lis Smith, said: “We have a responsibility to support our learners beyond their technical or academic studies, including raising awareness of key topics.

“We welcome working with Lancashire Police to help educate our young people about the dangers and impact of carrying knives and knife crime.”

Read more: Knife bins coming to Avenham and Kingsfold

While knife crime is not a part of everyday life in the county, Lancashire Police regularly run events to interact and engage with young people.

Sgt Paul McLernon from Lancashire Police added: “We have been using the knife arches for several months at various places around the Preston area, from schools and colleges through to the train station and in the city centre.

“It’s important that we educate everyone, from young people to parents about the dangers and consequences of carrying a knife as we want Lancashire to be a safe place to live and work.”

Read more: Police say “don’t be alarmed” after recent Preston knife crime incidents

What do you think of the work by Preston’s College to educate young people on knife crime? Let us know in the comments.