A LARGE samurai sword was seized from a home by police officers on patrol.

Essex Police officers recovered a sword with a blade in excess of 50cm from a home in Mayland.

The force has now reminded the public it is illegal to possess a blade of such a size in a public and private place, including a home.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Sword taken: curved blade sword taken from an address in Mayland Sword taken: curved blade sword taken from an address in Mayland (Image: Essex Police)

It is also illegal to possess knuckledusters, flick knives and telescopic truncheons.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗱𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 have been conducting some foot patrols around Maldon.

“We find it is a great way to get to know the local area and speak with members of the local community.

"Yesterday, we patrolled the 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 area of the district.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: On patrol: officer on patrol in MaldonOn patrol: officer on patrol in Maldon (Image: Essex Police)

“We also took this offensive weapon away from an individual today who had it at home.

“A curved blade sword with a blade in excess of 50cm is illegal to possess in a public place and a private place which includes a dwelling.

“This is a relatively new piece of legislation but ignorance is no excuse.”