An elderly man handed in an unexploded artillery bomb to police and asked them to dispose of it.

Officers at Balfron Police Station were taken aback when the local resident arrived with the item, which dates back to the First World War, on Monday.

The man, who is in his 80s, said he decided to hand the shell in after hearing about Police Scotland's recent air weapon amnesty.

The heirloom, which had been in the man's family since 1918, was swiftly transferred to a nearby field where specialist engineers from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) examined it before declaring it safe.

Sergeant David McNally, of Balfron police station, said: "The gentleman handed over the shell with the best of intentions however I think it is fair to say if gave everyone in the station a bit of a shock.

"We are of course pleased that our air weapon surrender campaign is being recognised by the public and that is to be encouraged.

"However, I would urge anyone who wants to hand over an explosive device to please contact police immediately on 101.

"We advise that you don't pick it up or move the item. Let us know and we will arrange for experts to assess the situation and decide on an appropriate course of action."