Richmond police are investigating after a 12cm knife was found outside a home in Kew.

UPDATE 12.45pm: PC Jordan Wharmsby, from the Kew safer neighbourhood team, said the knife had not been used in a crime.

But he added: "If anyone has a knife like that, that they wish to get rid of, they can call their local police team to dispose of it safely.

"This is the second one in as many weeks that we've found in Kew. We would rather come and collect them ourselves."

The Kew team can be reached on 020 8247 8320, or by email at Kew.snt@met.police.uk.

The sturdy knife, found near Kew Gardens station yesterday, had a broad, partially serrated blade, a wooden grip, and a wide hilt.

Sergeant Rich Nelson tweeted these pictures of the blade and said: "Left outside a resident's house near Kew Gdns station. Scary. We will make enquiries to see if connected with a crime."

After questions from residents, he added: "I agree scary, but legal to own in ones own home but not in a public place."