LEADING councillor Brian Ellis has declared war on replica Samurai swords and dangerous knives being sold to youngsters.

Coun Brian Ellis, a member of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, is spearheading a crusade to raise the age limit for buying blades from 16 to 18.

Concerns are growing after a drunk threatened a taxi driver with a Samurai sword in Weymouth last month.

Now a petition has secured the signatures of 200 residents, who fear that stab attacks could take place if laws are not tightened up.

Coun Ellis said: "You can go along to local shops and see swords and knives on sale very cheaply for as little as £19 or £36.

"More and more people are appearing in court after being arrested for carrying offensive weapons.

"Stabbings and woundings are becoming more prevalent and there is plenty of evidence it could happen in this area.

"This issue must be addressed before it is too late."

The campaign came after similar drives against ball bearing guns and replica weapons in Dorset, and a rising knife culture nationwide.

Trading standards and police have thrown their weight behind the campaign.

Coun Ellis said: "We have a lot of public support and want sales to be controlled by the same laws that govern firearms.

"While some swords are used only for display purposes, they are dangerous weapons and could be glorifying violence in the eyes of children."

Trading standards officers have sent out their own plea for sharp blades to be blunted down.

Ivan Hancock, divisional trading standards manager for Dorset County Council, said: "Why on earth do these replica swords need to be razor-sharp?

"Our institute has called for blunt blades to be sold because if someone is selling replica knives for artistic purposes, do they need to be sharp enough to inflict injuries?"

Mr Hancock said no licence was needed to sell swords and that there were no legal restrictions such as those imposed on sales of guns or crossbows.

He added: "You cannot sell a blade to anyone under 16 and legislation also stops combat knives being sold in a manner that could stimulate or encourage violent behaviour.

"However, this does not outlaw the sale of samurai swords, which are considered to be antiques or curios and may have a legitimate value for collectors.

"Having said that, you can probably go to any hardware store and buy something that can do just as much damage, like an axe."

West Weymouth police inspector Tony Rudd has also backed the campaign.

Insp Rudd said: "Police would certainly deal with the matter if somebody is using a replica sword as an offensive weapon.

"I welcome any changes to the law that tighten up the loopholes identified by Coun Ellis and wish him well in his campaign.

"I am sure he will get a lot of public support."