WEAPONS including a stun gun, rifle and shotgun are among those handed in so far under the national firearms surrender.

Residents have until Sunday, August 4 to hand in illegal and unwanted firearms and ammunition at five designated stations including Bridgwater Police Centre.

The surrender, co-ordinated by the National Ballistics Intelligence Service (NABIS) started on Saturday, July 20.

Police will take in unwanted items including lawfully-held guns and ammunition as well as illegal firearms, including stun guns and pepper spray.

Chief Inspector John Holt said: “Every weapon handed in helps to make our communities safer. Even lawfully-held or licensed firearms can be used to cause harm or fear in our communities if they fall into criminal hands.

"This fortnight is your chance to give up an illegal gun, or tell us where one is, without giving your name. Every weapon or piece of ammunition taken off the streets could save a life.”

Under the scheme you don’t have to give your name and the police won’t prosecute you for having an illegal item if you hand it in.

However, NABIS will examine guns and ammunition and will investigate if any have been used in crime.

NABIS may put unusual items into their reference collection or pass them to museums. Criminal evidence will be kept and everything else will be destroyed.

Illegal possession of a firearm can mean five years behind bars. Possession with intent to supply can lead to a life sentence.