The Lord Advocate has launched a campaign targeting those who carry knives over the festive season.

The drive builds on the zero tolerance knife-crime policy of Frank Mulholland, QC, over last year's Christmas and new year period.

Anyone caught in possession of a knife will be prosecuted before a sheriff and jury. This means offenders face the maximum prison sentence of four years.

Last year's town and city centre campaign saw an 18% reduction in the number of knife-related cases from the same period the previous year.

Mr Mulholland said: "Law enforcement has repeatedly warned of the dangers of carrying a knife.

"If you are thinking of carrying a knife – don't. It is not worth it."