Holidaymakers are being warned not to bring back souvenir weapons from trips abroad or they could face prosecution.

Holidaymakers are being warned not to bring back souvenir weapons from trips abroad or they could face prosecution.

Police and border control staff launched a campaign yesterday at Prestwick Airport to highlight the fact that what seems an innocent memento of a holiday can be an offensive weapon which will be confiscated or could even lead to a court appearance.

Officers said last year they seized a number of weapons from people returning home, including flick knives, knuckle-dusters and death stars.

Staff will be targeting holiday flights over the summer period, with several weapons removed already.

Inspector Bob Smith, airport commander, said: "We continue in our attempts to reduce incidents of violence and weapons carrying on the streets of Strathclyde. Too many people are still being killed or maimed by others who are prepared to carry weapons.

"I'm appealing to holidaymakers to think about the potential consequences of bringing back weapons. These weapons may be readily available while you're abroad, but when you get home they are classed as offensive weapons.

"Most people simply see them as a holiday souvenir, but if they get into the wrong hands, they could prove fatal."

Mark Rodwell, chief executive officer at Prestwick Airport, said: "At best the weapon will be confiscated, leaving passengers out of pocket. At worst, passengers could be prosecuted.

"Most people don't appreciate the dangers associated with bringing dangerous weapons into the country."

New procedures make it more difficult for people to bring in weapons through Prestwick. Passengers with weapons will have an opportunity to surrender them prior to police becoming involved.

However, where individuals choose not to surrender their weapons, police will be informed and offenders could face the prospect of arrest and being kept in custody until their appearance at court.