It took just seconds to dismantle an AK47 which was completely destroyed as part of Kent Police's biggest ever crackdown on firearms in the county.

Over the past few weeks people have been able to hand in any unwanted or illegally held guns or ammunition as the force staged a firearms surrender.

So far, police have received almost 140 weapons and 3,100 rounds of ammunition as part of the crack-down which began on Monday, January 21.

Police have received 136 shotguns, revolvers, pistols, air weapons, and the Kalashnikov AK47 which was handed to officers in Canterbury and destroyed earlier this week.

During the surrender, people will not face prosecution for illegal possession of a weapon and can remain anonymous.

Many firearms are held innocently with owners unaware of their illegality, or are overlooked heirlooms forgotten in people’s homes.

Others are acquired and distributed by criminal networks to threaten or harm communities.

Any firearm believed to be linked to criminal offences will be investigated in the usual manner.

Earlier this week, Chief Insp Nick Sparkes said: "This year's firearm surrender has seen the handing in of fewer weapons, however we are pleased with that as it means we are getting public cooperation and slowly clearing the streets of these items which may be used in criminal activity."

Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott added: "It is (the surrender) a positive move I feel and it just reduces opportunities for crime.

"Reducing crime more widely is a partnership between policing, the National Crime Agency and Border Force to make sure we are closing all the avenues for opportunity for people to own illegal fire arms."

If you have a weapon, there is still time to hand it in to police as the surrender has been extended again until tomorrow.

Chief Insp Sparkes added: "If you think you've got a firearm you need to contact us and handle it with care. We are professionally trained to clear and make those weapons safe. Secondly make contact with us with that information so we can recover that item."