Women urged to shop boyfriends and sons in 'Girls against guns' campaign

Women whose partners, brothers or sons are involved in gun crime are being urged to come forward as part of a new crime-fighting campaign.

Greater Manchester Police has launched 'Girls against guns' to encourage women not to become accessories to gang-related crime.

Posters featuring make-up and other 'handbag' items in the shape of a firearm are being put up around Manchester, posing the question: "Ladies, carrying a secret?"

They also bear the slogan: "You don't have to pull the trigger to commit the crime."

Manchester Assistant Chief Constable Debbie Ford said the aim is to encourage women with information about gun crime to "do the right thing", adding that even "one shooting is one too many".

She said: "By not saying anything to anyone, you're not stopping it from being used and the last thing we want is to be knocking on your door to tell you that your loved one has been killed in a shooting."

A new phone number has been set up for people to call with information following a shooting.

The campaign is supported by Pat Erdmann, mother of Lee Erdmann, who was shot down in a pub in Ordsall, Salford, in September 2011.

His killer has not yet been caught.

Greater Manchester Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said by passing on information, women could "make our streets safer and ultimately save lives".

He added: "I urge those who know a loved one in possession of a gun to do the right thing and speak out."

The force is encouraging women to discuss the campaign on social media using the hashtag #GirlsAgainstGuns.

However, the reaction has not been entirely positive, with many Twitter users calling out the force for being sexist.

One user tweeted to say: "This seriously needs rethinking.

"The subject matter is serious but I have great concerns over the sexiest nature it's portrayed."

Another said: "Christ, sorry guys but that's an awful ad."