YOUNGSTERS tempted to carry knives are being told: Don't Carry the Risk.

Blackburn police crime prevention officers are distributing hundreds of posters to schools. They warn of the legal consequences of being armed with a blade in the light of new legislation.

The posters, which feature the Don't Carry the Risk slogan and a stark depiction of a knife, will also be displayed at Blackburn youth clubs, shops and in the town centre.

The campaign follows moves by Home Secretary Michael Howard to strengthen the law on knives after the murder of headmaster Philip Lawrence.

New measures include;

Up to two years in prison for anyone carrying a knife in public without good reason.

A fine and up to two years in prison for anyone found carrying a knife or offensive weapon on school premises.

The introduction of wider police powers to stop and search members of gangs suspected of habitually carrying knives, offensive weapons or drugs.

And from January 1, 1997, it will be a criminal offence to sell a knife to a person aged under 16 with a maximum penalty of six months imprisonment and a fine.

Blackburn police crime prevention officer Sergeant Alan Holt said the poster campaign was an attempt to make people aware of the consequences of carrying a knife.

"It is illegal to carry a knife anywhere in public, including schools, unless you need to use it for a legitimate purpose.

"Under new legislation anyone found guilty can be locked up for two years or even four years if proved to be carrying a knife with intent to injure.

"Our advice is not to take chances."

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