A martial arts shop has handed over more than 100 imitation handguns to police.

Blitz Sport, on Duke Of Wellington Avenue, Woolwich, which sells martial arts clothing and equipment, agreed to hand over its entire stock of 145 imitation guns, which could be mistaken for the real thing.

The Metropolitan Police are clamping down on imitation handguns, which are often used in serious crimes.

Elida Fidler, director of the company's website Blitzsport.com, said: "As the largest martial arts supplier in the UK, we hope by handing them in, we can lead by example and try to help stamp out fear in the community.

"Our products are not designed to be used inappropriately.

"However, we understand sometimes this can be out of our control and will do everything in our power to ensure the community is kept safe."

The Metropolitan Police launched its Surrender scheme after intelligence suggested realistic imitation guns represent the largest number of firearms carried on London's streets.

They are used in around half of gun-related crime, including street robberies.

And imitation weapons are sometimes converted to fire live ammunition.

Brian Cherek, superintendent for Greenwich Safer Neighbourhoods, said: "Every gun which is handed to the police represents a positive step towards a safer London."

He added: "Weapons, whether they are imitation firearms or not, cause fear in our community."

Police worked with trading standards officers at Greenwich Council to organise the handover.

Anyone with information about the use of real or imitation firearms and suppliers should call the police or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.