NEW GUN LAW IN EFFECT FROM MONDAY

Retailers could be criminalised if they sell plastic guns, which look too realistic, to children.

The tough new police powers came into effect on Monday, making it illegal to sell 'realistic' toy guns to under 18s.

The law is part of the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 and forms a central plank of the government's continued campaign to reduce violent and anti-social crime.

The law is an extension of the ban on replica fire arms and follows fears that some young people are using realistic-looking plastic firearms for ant-social activities.

It will now be an offence to sell domestic knives, razor blades, knife blades and axes to minors - as well as crossbows, air weapons, realistic toy guns and adult "BB" guns.

Superintendent Richard Baker, of Devon and Cornwall Constabulary, said: "The changes in the law are welcomed as part of the range of preventative measures employed to reduce violent crime and anti-social behaviour.

"The sale of realistic toy guns and adult 'BB' guns has been a particular concern of ours for some time and the restricted sale of these products is a positive step in crime prevention.

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