AN IMPOSING piece of art, created using more than 100,000 knives and blades confiscated by 43 UK police forces, is set to visit Worcester in the spring.
The 27ft-tall ‘Knife Angel’ was designed by Alfie Bradley at the British Ironwork Centre in Oswestry with the aim of bringing the issue of knife crime to the front of society’s consciousness.
City councillors were set to discuss the significance of the Angel’s visit and the potential allocation of £7,500 to help spread its message at a meeting of the Communities Committee at the Guildhall on Wednesday (November 3)
“People often think of knife crime and violence as something that happens in other cities. However, the most commonly reported types of crimes involve threats of violence without injury,” said council leader Coun Marc Bayliss.
“We hope the Knife Angel’s visit can be a catalyst for change. We will actively encourage visits from schools, colleges and community groups.
“Guest speakers who have experienced violence first-hand will talk to young people about the impact it has had – as well as the long-term consequences for perpetrators.”
The Angel is set to visit Worcester from March 1 to March 31, with the Cathedral grounds cited in the committee report as the potential location.
A series of workshops at the Cathedral, school visits, classroom activities and interactive events at the statue are set to take place.
During the month a general weapons amnesty is being proposed, in the form of a ‘surrender’ secure bin which travels with the Angel.
Worcester City Council will work with Worcester Cathedral, the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner, West Mercia Police, the South Worcestershire Community Safety Partnership and other partners to make the most of the Angel’s presence in the city and to ensure that its message has maximum impact.
The Knife Angel has already visited a number of prominent UK cities and landmarks including Chester, Coventry, Liverpool, Birmingham, Hereford and Telford and Wrekin. It has been recognised by the Home Office as the National Monument Against Violence and Aggression.
Visit www.britishironworkcentre.co.uk/projects/knife-angel-national-monument-against-violence-aggression for more on the project.
