Sellers of so-called "zombie killer" knives will face up to four years in jail after a ban on the "horrific" weapons comes into force this week. 

Inspired by horror films and advertised for 'exterminating the undead', the jagged serrated blades have been used in an increasing number of brutal killings. 

Often advertised online for as little as £10, the menacing knives can be easily bought by children on the Internet. 

Statistics show that in 12 months from last March forces dealt with 28,664 offences involving a knife or sharp blade - a ten per cent rise compared with the previous year. 

The serrated zombie knives are up to two-foot long and are sold by online retailers and shops as collectors' items. 

Last July the Met Police issued a warning about the deadly weapons, which often have bright green handles, after YouTube videos emerged of teenagers brandishing them. 

In April, 17-year-old Blaise Lewinson was convicted of manslaughter after stabbing teenager Stefan Appleton to death with a zombie knife in Islington, north London. 

But as of Thursday an amendment to the Criminal Justice Act 1988 will ban the sale, manufacture, rental or importation of the zombie knives. 

Anyone caught with them will face four years in prison. 

Sarah Newton, Minister for Vulnerability, Safeguarding and Countering Extremism, said: "This government will act wherever necessary to cut crime and keep our communities safe. Zombie killer knives glamorise violence and cause devastating damage - they have no place whatsoever in our society. 

"We committed to banning the sale, manufacture and importation of these dangerous weapons. With the ban now becoming law, we are delivering on our commitment. 

"Anyone caught making or selling zombie knives now faces up to four years in prison." 

Chief Constable Alf Hitchcock, National Police Chiefs' Council Lead for Knife Enabled Crime, said: "Zombieknives are absolutely horrific weapons. Forces are determined to reduce the harm caused by these and all other dangerous weapons. 

"There is no place for knife crime within society and this ban is further commitment to keeping communities safe." 

The ban will come into effect from Thursday in England and Wales, with discussions to extend the ban to Northern Ireland.