More than 17,500 air weapons have been handed in over the last six months in a nationwide amnesty.

Anyone who wishes to own an airgun in Scotland after December 31 must apply for a licence, with about 10,500 applications received so far.

Unlicensed air weapon owners will face a fine or up to two years in jail.

People who submitted applications after November 1 will not have their licences processed in time and have been advised to store their weapons with someone who has a licence.

Justice secretary Michael Matheson said: "Every day the police, the public and animal welfare groups have to face the results of air weapon misuse, from antisocial behaviour to horrific and deliberate injuries to wildlife, pets and very occasionally people.

"By licensing air weapons we will take them out of the hands of those who would misuse them and better protect our communities.

"The new law coming into force is part of our long-standing commitment to eradicate gun crime in Scotland."

He added: "We are not banning air weapons outright but ensuring their use is properly regulated and users have a legitimate reason for them.

"We believe the new licence strikes the right balance between protecting communities and allowing legitimate use in a safe environment to continue."

Weapons surrendered to police during the amnesty will be destroyed.