A Bolton police inspector says everybody can play a part in reducing violent crime in Bolton and making the borough a safer place for everyone. Police Inspector Jon Ezard spoke as Operation Sceptre was launched in Bolton. The nationwide operation he nationwide operation is designed to crack down on violent crime , with a particular focus on knife violence and knifepoint robberies.

Insp Ezard said the operation was vital for getting messages out there about knife crime as well as tackling it. During the operation, amnesty bins were also provided for people to dispose of knives. @theboltonnews This week, Greater Manchester Police have launched Sceptre week.

The operation is to tackle knife crime on the streets of #bolton ♬ original sound - The Bolton News The inspector said that children who carry knives for 'protection' are especially vulnerable to its consequences - and added that work was taking place to make the town centre's night economy safer for people of all ages to enjoy. He said: “Most of the children we speak to say that they have to carry the knives for protection, but from statistics you’re more likely to be injured by your own knife, which makes carrying just as dangerous. “It’s a split-second decision that could change your life or someone else’s.

We need the community to work together to tackle this issue. We need parents to talk to young people and tell them not to carry these weapons. "If you’re aware of someone carrying weapons, tell a trusted .