New project aims to reduce knife crime

Metal detecting wands have been given to clubs and bars in Grimsby and Cleethorpes. The wands will help door staff identify when someone is carrying a knife.

It’s hoped the wands will prevent knife crime in North East Lincolnshire and reduce the number of knife-related incidents and aims to help workers and users of the night time economy to feel safe.

Street marshals will also be deployed over the bank holiday weekend to help reduce violent crime.

The scheme has been made possible with money from the Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner’s crime reduction fund at a total cost of £7,000.

North East Lincolnshire Council, Humberside Police and North East Lincolnshire Pubwatch have been working together on the project and identified a number of locations where they may be needed.

More than fifty wands have been ordered and are being handed out to venues across the borough on request.

Police have already given wands to a number of venues in Grimsby and Cleethorpes.

Searches may take place upon entering some premises as a way to keep revellers safe.

Councillor Ron Shepherd, portfolio holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said:

Knife crime is a significant problem across the country and has been generating headlines recently. This scheme will act as a deterrent to those carrying bladed weapons and provide reassurance to the community that licensees, police and the council are working together to prevent knife crime. The wands will help keep visitors safe and reduce the chances of a night out ending in tragedy.

Superintendent Dave Hall of Humberside Police said:

Knife wands are a great tool to help venues keep their customers safe and I welcome their introduction in Grimsby and Cleethorpes. Not only will they prevent people with knives entering the pubs and clubs, they will also serve as a deterrent to anyone considering carrying a knife when out and about. This goes alongside the work that our teams and partners do to educate people about the dangers of carrying knives or other bladed weapons.